An x-ray revealed, to everyone's shock, that an air gun pellet was lodged in the 10-year-old cat's gum.
The charity believes Butler had been shot some time ago, as the wound had already healed over the pellet.
£2k surgery
Butler underwent a £2,000 surgery, during which two of his teeth were removed. After his recovery, the charity reported that he was adopted by a new owner who quickly formed a strong bond with him.
Stacey Ely, deputy centre manager, expressed her distress at the situation, saying it was heartbreaking to think someone may have intentionally targeted a defenceless cat. She praised the teamwork of volunteers, staff, and vets in addressing Butler's health issues.
Air gun injuries
Cats Protection noted that, sadly, Butler's case was not isolated, citing over 550 reports of cats being shot with air rifles in the UK over the past five years. Earlier this year, a cat in Norwich had to be put down after suffering an air gun injury.
The charity has called for tighter regulations on air guns in England and Wales, launching a petition for stricter licensing similar to the laws already in place in Scotland.
We are so pleased that Butler has made a full recovery.
