The RSPCA is urging cat owners across the South East to be extra vigilant following what appears to be a rise in brutal attacks on pets using air guns and other weapons.
The animal welfare charity says it is seeing a “worrying upward trend” in cases where cats have been deliberately targeted. In addition to air guns, reports have included the use of catapults and even crossbows — weapons capable of causing serious injury or killing an animal.
According to new figures released by the RSPCA, between 2022 and this year there were 51 reported incidents of animals being attacked with these types of weapons across the South East. While the figures cover all kinds of animals, the charity says cats are often the victims. This is partly because they roam freely outdoors, making them more vulnerable to being targeted.
Deliberately harming or killing an animal can lead to prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, with offenders facing fines and prison sentences. The charity warns that in many cases, these incidents go unreported, meaning the true scale of the problem could be far worse than the figures suggest.
The RSPCA is appealing to the public to contact the police in the first instance if they witness an attack or believe a crime is taking place. They can also report directly to the RSPCA via its dedicated cruelty line or online through the “Report a Concern” page at rspca.org.uk.
Pet owners are being advised to keep a close eye on their cats, especially if they live near open spaces, parks, or areas where people might use such weapons. Warning signs that a cat may have been shot include limping, bleeding, swelling, or sudden changes in behaviour such as hiding or avoiding being touched.
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Updated: 14/08/2025 @11:58 - A-Level results day for thousands of students across the South
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