PET owners in Tenbury have become increasingly concerned after a reported spate of attacks on cats.

Joanne and Alan Broome were shocked to find their feline, Maxine with a ‘hole in her leg’ after it was shot by an air rifle last month.

Luckily, the cat survived, but the pair have been left with a hefty £

“She has to be kept in a cage for four to six weeks now,” said Mr Broome.

“The pellet shattered her leg and since she’s only 14 weeks old she easily could’ve lost it.”

Ludlow Advertiser: Maxine now stays in a cage after being shot by an air rifleMaxine now stays in a cage after being shot by an air rifle (Image: Rob Davies)

The couple were concerned that this might not be an isolated incident, having already lost a cat to a seizure induced by a pellet gun shot in 2020, and so reached out via social media to warn locals.

According to Mrs Broome, around five people came forward with stories of recent attacks.

Fortunately, no deaths have yet resulted from the the apparent shootings, however many fear this may change if the alleged culprit does not stop.

Even if a shot is not life-threatening, air gun pellets often leave cats with significant injuries resulting in loss of sight and limb amputations.

Ludlow Advertiser: Joanne Broome could be faced with a veterinary bill of £2,500Joanne Broome could be faced with a veterinary bill of £2,500 (Image: Rob Davies)

Investigations by Cats Protection have found that attacks of this kind are not uncommon, with over 550 shootings reported by in the last five years.

Madison Rogers, Cats Protection’s head of advocacy, campaigns and government relations, said: “Discovering a much-loved pet cat has been shot with an air gun is deeply distressing for any owner.

"It is also a great concern for the wider community, who will understandably be very anxious that dangerous weapons are being used by individuals living in their area.”

While anyone over 18 can legally own an air gun, it is an offence to have one in a public place without a reasonable excuse.

People found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal face a maximum of six months in jail and up to a £20,000 fine.

The incident was reported to the West Mercia Police, but the investigation was closed pending any information that may come forward.

Any witnesses are encouraged to get in contact with the police.