TWO cats in a North Yorkshire village have been subjected to horrific attacks with BB guns - causing the death of one and a fractured leg on another.
One cat was found shot dead in Topcliffe, near Thirsk, on Thursday, October 11, just a month after another was shot at in the same village.
Police said the cat was found with wounds from at least 10 pellets from a BB gun in Topcliffe, where both cat owners live.
Police are not currently linking the two attacks.
The cat shot in September survived, but it had to undergo treatment for a fractured leg.
PC Duncan Pears, of Thirsk Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “These acts of barbarity are truly sickening.
“How anyone can inflict such injuries on innocent animals is beyond understanding.
“Those responsible such be utterly ashamed of themselves.”
He added: “If you can identify those responsible to come forward and contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away.”
Caroline Thompson, deputy manager at Blue Cross animal shelter in Thirsk, said: “We are deeply shocked to hear about this poor cat.
“It is unbelievable that someone could inflict such a vicious attack on a defenceless animal who would have undoubtedly suffered extreme pain and distress."
Anyone wwith information is asked to contact Thirsk police on 101, choose option 2 and ask for Duncan Pears or email duncan.pears@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111 quoting reference number 12120172669.
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