Pet cat has to be put down after being shot with airgun in Sunderland

Eighteen-month-old Midnight lost the use of his legs when he was attacked within minutes of leaving his home in Hylton Lane, Downhill,on Wednesday, January 29.

He was found by a member of the public in the car park of The Bunny Hill Primary Care Centre who took him home and called the RSPCA.

Now the charity is appealing for help to find the people responsible.

Midnight’s owner Hayley McGee said: “I let him out at 6.15pm on Wednesday and apparently he was found around 6.45pm.

“I’m shocked that someone who lives nearby could do such an awful thing.

“Midnight was very much loved and we are crushed that he’s been taken from us in this way.”

Midnight was left unable to use his back legs and when he was taken to a vet practice and x-rayed, a bullet was found lodged in his spine. The vet decided he should be put to sleep on humane grounds.

Hayley got worried when Midnight hadn’t come home the following day and was scrolling through Facebook when she saw the news.

She said: “I can’t save Midnight but whoever did this is still out there and if I can save another pet, I want to.

“If you know who did this please call the RSPCA. I know what we’re going through and I don’t want anyone else to have to feel this way.”

RSPCA inspector Rachael Hurst, who is investigating the case, said: “This was a very cruel act which has resulted in Midnight’s suffering and death and an enormous amount of distress to his family.

“Causing unnecessary suffering in this way carries a six-month prison sentence and unlimited fine.

“If anyone has any specific information about what happened please call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for me.”

To help the RSPCA continue investigating incidents like this, visit the website rspca.org.uk/ or call the donation line on 0300 123 8181