Cat shot in the face with airgun in Cambuslang

Nibbles was said to be lucky to be alive. Picture: SSPCA

The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after the 14 month-old cat narrowly escaped death in the airgun attack in Cambuslang last week.

The animal welfare charity revealed today that the cat, known as Nibbles, had “staggered” into her home in the town’s Cypress Way last Thursday afternoon, bleeding from the nose and mouth.

An SSPCA spokeswoman said: “Her distraught owners rushed her to a local vet where an x-ray revealed an airgun pellet was lodged in the back of her throat.”

Mike Flynn, the SSPCA’s Chief Superintendent, said: “Nibbles is incredibly lucky to have survived what appears to have been a malicious airgun attack.

“The x-rays show that the airgun pellet has entered her mouth, hit the hard pallet at the back and become lodged in her throat.”

He explained: “Due to the location of the pellet, Nibbles may require specialist treatment at Glasgow Vet School to have it removed, but at the moment she is at home with her family and being kept comfortable.

“We are very concerned to hear of yet another mindless airgun attack on a defenceless creature and we would urge local pet owners to be vigilant.”

Chief Supt Flynn added: “This happened in a residential area occupied by families so there is not only a risk to animals but also to any children playing outdoors as well.

“Anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to use an airgun in this way has no consideration for the welfare of others and should not be in possession of such a weapon.

“This incident only highlights why the Scottish Government should implement the licensing of airguns as a matter of urgency. The new licensing regime should ensure that only those with a lawful reason are allowed to possess such a dangerous weapon. It will also allow the police to trace anyone using an airgun irresponsibly.”

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call the SSPCA’s animal helpline on 03000 999 999.