The RSPCA is urging pet owners to be extra vigilant after new data revealed a 30% increase in reported airgun attacks on cats.

70 such incidents were reported to the animal charity in 2024, up from 54 in 2023.

The data also reveals that Cheshire generated amongst the highest number of incidents relating to animals attacked by air guns, catapults or crossbows, with 16 reports received between 2022 and 2024.

 RSPCA wildlife partnerships manager Geoff Edmond said: "Weapon attacks on animals are horrific, but what we see is likely only the tip of the iceberg.

 "There's huge concern about the growing incidents of catapult attacks on wild birds such as swans, but air guns remain by far the most likely weapon to be used on an animal.

 "It is unspeakably cruel and totally unacceptable to shoot animals for 'fun' - or to harm them for target practice, but sadly we've received nearly 500 reports about all kinds of weapon attacks on animals over the past three years.

 "While most people will be appalled by animals being attacked in this way, sadly the RSPCA's experience shows that some deliberately target wildlife, pets and farm animals with guns, catapults and crossbows - presumably for 'laughs'. But these weapons cause horrific pain and suffering."

The figures have been released as part of the RSPCA's Summer Cruelty Appeal (Credit: Pixabay)

Cheshire's tally of 16 incidents is beaten only by Kent (32), Greater London (31), Durham (20) and Essex (18).

These figures have been released as part of the RSPCA's Summer Cruelty Appeal, aiming to raise awareness of the plight of many animals at this time of year. 

The charity is working in partnership with other agencies, including police forces across the country. 

"We are doing all we can to change things," Geoff added.

"Day after day, our frontline officers and animal centres see the sickening consequences of weapons being used on animals - including severe injuries often leading to death.

"This is why we need our supporters to back our 'Summer Cruelty Appeal' so we can keep tackling this horrific trend and continue to take action against cruelty."