Appeal for information after pet cat shot near Bendigo

A cat is being fed through a tube after being shot in the face near Bendigo, as authorities appeal for help to find the shooter. Warning: distressing content.

A pet cat is recovering from serious injuries after being shot in the face near Bendigo earlier this month, in what the RSPCA has labelled a “deliberate act of cruelty”.

RSPCA Victoria received a cruelty report after the black pet cat was shot in the Redesdale area, located between Bendigo and Kyneton, earlier this month.

The incident is believed to have occurred near Racecourse Road around April 4.

RSPCA Victoria Inspectorate leader Karen Collier said the cat sustained substantial injuries requiring significant medical attention.

The nature of its injuries were described as “complex” - it’s jaw has been wired shut and it is being fed through a tube.

The cat appears to have a gunshot wound shot to its face.

“Whoever committed this act has inflicted immense suffering on a family’s pet, and their actions could have easily resulted in a painful death for the animal,” Ms Collier said.

A cat is suffering after being shot in the face near Bendigo. Picture: Supplied.

The RSPCA has appealed for information to track down the person responsible for the cat’s injuries. Picture: Supplied.

Ms Collier said the cat was recovering at home.

RSPCA Victoria on Wednesday appealed for information to track down the person responsible.

“We are pleading for the public’s help to identify the person responsible for this act,” Ms Collier said.

She also urged anyone who suspected or knew their pet had been shot to take their animal to the vet.

It is an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 to wound, mutilate, torture, abuse, beat, torment, or terrify an animal, or to take, or omit to take, an action that results in unreasonable pain or suffering to an animal.

Penalties can be up to $46,230 in fines or 12 months’ imprisonment.

Anyone with information about this incident and who can help identify anyone involved or who has concerns for the welfare of an animal is encouraged to contact RSPCA Victoria at 9224 2222 or rspcavic.org immediately.