SSPCA appeal after cat shot in Highlands

The x-ray image shows the pellet lodged in Flash Harry's body. Picture: SSPCA

AN ANIMAL charity is appealing for help in tracing a person who callously shot a cat in the Highlands.

The Scottish SPCA is making the appeal after the cat, named Flash Harry, was shot in the village of Cawdor, near Inverness.

The charity was alerted by police after the cat’s owners reported the shooting.

The three year old male cat had returned home last Wednesday bleeding and in pain.

His owners rushed him to a vets, where an airgun pellet was found embedded in his shoulder.

Thankfully, the vet was able to remove the pellet and Flash is now recovering at home.

Chief Inspector Iain Allan said, “Flash left home on the Wednesday morning at around 8am and returned home injured at 9.15am.

“We think he was shot at close range so he was lucky to survive the attack.

“It’s very fortunate he wasn’t killed or left with more severe injuries. Although he is continuing to recover at home, he currently has a very pronounced limp and is unable to jump or climb.

“This was an extremely cruel act and we would advise other cat owners in the area to be vigilant.

“Cawdor is a small village and we are appealing to the public to come forward if they know who may be responsible for this shooting.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.