A CAT has been left blind in one eye after it was shot with a ball-bearing from a powerful catapult.

Fluffy was found by his heartbroken owner covered in blood on her garden wall.

He was taken to a vet, who removed the missile, which was the size of a five pence piece, from its skull.

Owner Jeanette Young, 40, of King Lane, Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, is warning people about how dangerous catapults are.

She said: "When he turned around, it was like scene from The Terminator because it had gone right into his eye.

"I do not how he managed to get home because it was so severe."

Mrs Young said those responsible for the attack were sick. She said: "I do not understand how anyone could do this.

"The police said it looked like he had been held down so they could shoot him because of the angle. It makes me sick to the stomach and has put me off my food."

Fluffy has been taken to a vet six times for painful operations since the incident on June 22.

The ball-bearing has been removed, the wound has been stitched and is now healing.

Mrs Young said Fluffy was now getting back to its playful self.

Police are investigating the incident and supported Ms Young's warning about the danger of catapults.

A spokesman said: "Clearly, using such a weapon is dangerous and irresponsible, and in this case has caused unnecessary suffering to the injured animal.

"Our concern is that if it is being used on an animal, a member of the public could be the next victim, possibly with more serious consequences."

Anyone with information on the attack has been asked to call Chester-le-Street police on 0191-388 4311.