THE RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat died following an airgun attack at Rock Ferry on Merseyside.

The offender targeted 2 felines whose owner found they had both suffered wounds when they returned to their home in Stoneleigh Grove. X-rays showed that a gun pellet had ruptured 1 of the cat’s stomach and sadly a vet decided the kindest thing to do was to put her to sleep.

Fortunately, the other cat only suffered a wound to her ear and after receiving treatment she has made a recovery.

The shootings took place on:- Saturday, 7 March 2026 between 3pm and 4pm.

RSPCA Inspector Naomi Norris, who is investigating, said:- “We are appealing for anyone who may have seen or heard about someone shooting at cats with airguns in the Rock Ferry area on the afternoon of March 7. The severity of the injury sustained by the deceased cat suggests it was likely that these cats were targeted close to their home in Stoneleigh Grove. This was a cruel attack on defenceless animals and we are appalled that some people take pleasure from cruelly and deliberately targeting animals in this way, but sadly, these types of incidents are not uncommon.”

Anyone with any 1st-hand information about these shootings should call our Inspectorate on:- 0300 123 8018 and quote reference number:- 01750421.

The RSPCA receives hundreds of calls to investigate air gun shootings every year and sadly cats and wildlife are usually the animals most often affected. There tends to be a rise in the number of attacks during the summer months when the days are longer and people are spending more time outside. Between 2022 and 224 the charity fielded 376 reports concerning airgun attacks on animals.

The animal charity is calling for stricter regulations around owning an airgun in both England and Wales. Better education, basic safety training for owners and a thorough explanation of the law could help protect countless animals from these horrible attacks in the future.

Anyone caught deliberately using an air gun to injure an animal can face up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act.