A CAT sustained severe facial injuries after being shot with a ball bearing which was found embedded in the centre of his face.

The cat, called Freddie, had to undergo reconstructive facial surgery as a result of the injuries he suffered following the attack which happened in Upton in Poole. His owners still don’t know if he will make a full recovery.

Freddie’s owners discovered he had been injured when he returned to the property in Watery Lane at around 10.15pm on Monday, March 15.

They took him to the vet and they were told it was most likely that the ball bearing had been fired from a catapult or something similar.

Bournemouth Echo:

Police are now investigating the incident and have appealed for witnesses to contact them.

Freddie’s owners said: “We feel it is very important that cats are allowed outside for their own wellbeing and have always allowed our beloved pet to roam free. This incident has really shocked us and left us questioning whether we would be happy for our pet to continue to be let outside.

“We want to raise awareness to other local residents as this could happen again and we wouldn’t wish the pain this has brought us on anyone. Not only has this caused us immeasurable sadness, but it is likely to cost thousands of pounds in veterinary bills.

“If you hear or see anything unusual please report it, we’re sure the perpetrator will do this again and we want to avoid anyone else going through such a traumatic experience that will continue to haunt us.”

Sergeant Fern Graham, of Poole police, said: “This has been very upsetting for Freddie’s owners to see their pet suffer such nasty injuries as a result of what was believed to have been a deliberate attack.

“We are carrying out enquiries into this matter and I would appeal to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Watery Lane on the evening of Monday 15 March 2021, or has any other information that might assist our enquiries, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210041658. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.