A PET owner has been left heartbroken after her cat was shot and killed with an air rifle.

Oscar was shot several times before returning to his home in Scagglethorpe, near Malton.

His owner noticed the wounds and took him to the vet who tried to save Oscar by amputated his leg and removing pellets from elsewhere in his body. 

However, sadly he died from his injuries a day later.

The offence was reported to police on Tuesday, March 29, although it is believed the incident took place a week earlier as the owner was too distraught to report it immediately.

PC Linda Coles, of Malton Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "This was a particularly cruel attack against an affectionate animal, and it has understandably left his owner heartbroken.

"I'd appeal for the public's help in finding whoever who did this, and we will do everything in our power to bring them to justice for this cowardly attack."

The motive behind this incident is not clear and police are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch. Please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, ask for Linda Coles and quote reference 12160054750.