Residents have been urged to contact the RSPCA with any information relating to an incident where a cat was shot with an air gun.

The incident took place near Hawthorne Close, in West Heath, Congleton, on Saturday night (23rd May).

An RSPCA spokesperson told Nub News: "We're aware of this incident and would encourage anyone with any information to get in touch by calling our appeal line on 0300 123 8018."

The RSPCA also gave a generic statement about air gun attacks.

"Every year the RSPCA receives almost 1,000 calls to investigate cases and help hundreds of animals that are the defenceless victims of air gun attacks.

"It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals. These are deliberate and brutal acts of cruelty.

"Cats and wildlife are normally the animals that are more susceptible to these incidents simply because they are out in the open with no one to protect them. Unfortunately, air rifle attacks are not as rare as we would like. The injuries caused by such attacks are horrific and often fatal.

"We are calling for tighter controls on air weapons. This, along with better education and explanation of the law when buying an air gun, and requirements that everyone must receive basic safety training before being allowed to walk out of the shop could help relieve the problem.

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"These weapons cause horrific pain and suffering and it is illegal. Anyone caught deliberately using an air gun to injure an animal can face up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act."

Congleton Nub News has contacted the police for a statement and this article will be updated when it is received.