News

A stray cat rescued by Blue Cross needed surgery after being shot in the back with an air rifle.

Walnut is the second cat to be taken in by our rehoming centre in Torbay with this injury and we’re warning people in the Devon area to be extra vigilant.

We discovered the pellet lodged into her back following an X-ray to see why she had a lump, which we thought was a cyst. But the culprit was much more sinister.

Poor Walnut is such an affectionate cat who loves people so much that, sadly, we think this might have actually worked against her.

Animal welfare assistant Kelly Hennequin says: “Walnut is a really friendly cat and loves to interact with people, but this has been her downfall because someone has been able to get close enough to shoot at her.”

Walnut, who came to Blue Cross after being spotted hanging around a café trying to steal food, recovered well from the surgery.

Kelly says: “Luckily the pellet was at the surface and didn’t cause any internal injuries.

“But this is now the second cat we’ve taken in that was shot with an airgun and we have also heard reports of animal cruelty in the areas of Paignton and Torquay, like cats being poisoned or kicked.

“Please take note of anything suspicious around your local area and, if you notice anything, contact the RSPCA immediately.”

If you’d like to help us care for more injured and stray pets like Walnut, please make a donation today.