RSPCA appeal launched after cat shooting in Willenhall

The RSPCA has launched an appeal for information after a cat was shot with an air weapon in the Willenhall area.

Officers from the charity were alerted after Molly returned back to her home, off of Stroud Avenue, in a very bad way on Friday 16 April.

Molly's owner returned from work to find her very still, but screaming in pain when touched. There was a huge lump on her ear; and sadly, local vets found that the feline had been shot through the ear with an air rifle, before the hard, round bullet lodged into the poor cat's neck.

There is no CCTV in the vicinity - and RSPCA officers have appealed to the local community to come forward with any information which could help track down the perpetrators.  The animal welfare charity supports greater regulation governing the use of air weapons - to protect both people and animals, and say this incident acts as a reminder why that must remain firmly on the agenda.

Fortunately, eight-year-old Molly is doing well and continues to recover after surgery.

Anyone with information about this incident in the West Midlands town has been urged to contact the RSPCA's inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

RSPCA inspector Claire Davey said: "Thankfully, Molly is okay - but she was left with really nasty injuries to her ear and neck, and clearly things could have been even worse.

"We currently have no leads regarding a possible perpetrator - but know that someone did this to Molly on 16 April on a street off of Stroud Avenue in Willenhall.

"The RSPCA really hopes that someone might be able to help us with our enquiries. Our inspectorate appeal line can be reached on 0300 123 8018 and we'd urge anyone with information to get in touch.

"Sadly, this incident reminds us why we need to see tougher regulation concerning air weapons. The RSPCA supports better education, stricter control on use and an explanation of the law to anyone purchasing an air weapon.

"As England emerges out of lockdown and with everything communities have done to rally around one another, it really beggars belief to think someone has been taking shots at an innocent cat like this."

Should you wish to support the work of the RSPCA, you can also donate online.