A THREE-year-old cat has been killed by an air rifle wound, leaving her owner distraught and pleading with Wisbech residents to take extra care of their pets. People have got to protect their cats because I am worried that someone is starting to go aroun

A THREE-year-old cat has been killed by an air rifle wound, leaving her owner distraught and pleading with Wisbech residents to take extra care of their pets.

"People have got to protect their cats because I am worried that someone is starting to go around the town shooting them," said Daphne Archer on Tuesday, hours after the family cat died from her injuries.

Molly, a black and white cat, was found wounded near the garage of the family home in Octagon Drive on Monday evening, by Mrs Archer's daughter Laura.

The family first thought she had been hit by a car, but an x-ray at Vetsavers in Wisbech found an air weapon pellet lodged in its stomach.

Mrs Archer said: "My daughter laughed when the vet told us she had been shot. Who in their right mind would shoot a cat?

"We know it happened not too far away from home because she found her way back home. With her injuries, I don't think she would not have got far."

Further tests at the veterinary surgery found Molly was bleeding heavily in her stomach and, despite an emergency operation, she died from her injuries.

Following the cat's death, Mrs Archer walked around the Pickard's Way estate to find out whether anyone saw or heard about the incident.

She said: "Everyone was shocked - particularly a young girl whose pet dog played with Molly all the time.

"I am just hoping someone else has seen or heard something. It happened in broad daylight.

"Whoever did it simply has no respect for people, property or animals. It has left this family very upset."

Police are investigating the incident and are appealing with anyone with information to call 0845 456 4564.