An RSPCA investigation has been launched after a young cat had to be put to sleep following a suspected rifle shooting near Malton.

On Tuesday, May 5, a grey and white tabby was rushed to the vet after returning from to her home in Whitewall, Norton, near Malton.

The young cat’s owners thought she had been involved in a road accident after being unable to use her back legs.

An examination by the vet revealed the tabby had suffered an entry wound abdomen and a shattered femur.

Due to the fragments retrieved, the vet believed she had been shot with a live round from a .22 rifle.

Despite emergency treatment the young cat’s condition deteriorated and she was euthanised the following day on veterinary advice.

Now, the RSPCA has launched an appeal for anyone with information and asking pet owners living in Welham Road, Whitewall Corner Hill and the surrounding area to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the police.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer, James Dack, said: “Our hearts go out to the owners of this young cat who have lost their much-loved cat in the most dreadful circumstances.

“If she hadn’t managed to get home she may never have been found and she would have suffered, alone, even more. We’d urge anyone with first-hand knowledge about this incident to get in touch.

“The RSPCA has received nearly 500 reports about weapon attacks on animals over the past three years including incidents involving guns, catapults and crossbows.As more police forces are seeing worrying levels of weapons-related incidents, the charity has helped to develop initiatives like Operation Lakeshot, a police-led partnership which aims to tackle catapult-related wildlife crime.

“Anyone with information about the shooting in can contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01795343.”