New figures show incidents targeting felines increased by 30% in the past year, with 70 cases reported in 2024 alone.
The charity described the cruelty as “horrific”, warning that the true scale may be far greater.
Cases all over the UK
One victim, Nala from Dorset, was left unable to use her back leg after being shot with an air rifle. In Liverpool, a rescue cat named Ronnie was found screaming in pain after suffering five air gun pellet wounds.
The RSPCA also revealed a surge in other weapon-related incidents, including cats, farm animals and wild birds being targeted with guns, crossbows and catapults. Between 2022 and 2024, nearly 500 reported cases were recorded.
Cruel and unacceptable
RSPCA wildlife partnerships manager Geoff Edmond said: “It is unspeakably cruel and totally unacceptable to shoot animals for ‘fun’. Day after day, we see the sickening consequences.”
The charity has launched a Summer Cruelty Appeal to raise funds for animals affected by abuse, and is working with police through Operation Lakeshot to tackle the crimes.
