A young cat was forced to have a pellet removed from her shoulder after being shot by an air gun.

One-year-old Toffee was injured after being struck by someone brandishing a gun in Chester Road, Streetly.

The pellet was there for a week as owner Tony Williams initially believed the blood he first saw on her fur was the result of a cut.

When she continued to walk with a limp days later the concerned IT worker then took her to the vets where the pellet was found.

Toffee is now recovering at home and is expected to be housebound for at least another week.

The injury is believed to have occurred on April 15. She is believed to have been in a back garden near to where she lives in Chester Road when she was shot.

Mr Williams, aged 42, said: “Originally I just thought she had caught herself on something but then noticed a few days later she was still limping.

“It was a real shock when we went to the vets and the pellet was discovered. Looking back I feel really guilty about not taking her in sooner, I thought it was just a sore and would heal up.

“It is totally pointless why anyone would shoot a cat. It is a very irresponsible mindless act by someone and they should be aware of what they have done. I would appeal for anyone who knows someone with an air gun to impress upon them the dangers of having that gun.”

It is believed a .22 air rifle was used and RSPCA inspector Simon Davies, who is investigating the case, said: “This was a mindless act of cruelty on a much loved pet cat and I would like to find out who was responsible.

“How anybody could inflict such pain on any animal is beyond me. Sadly cats and birds are easy targets but I would like to make it clear that anyone who uses an animal for target practice is committing a criminal offence.”

Anyone with information should call the RSPCA advice line on 0300 1234 999 or police on 0845 113 5000.