THE RSPCA is appealing for information after a much-loved cat was shot near his home in Sunderland. 

18-month-old Midnight was attacked within minutes of leaving his house on Hylton Lane, Downhill, on Wednesday, January 29.

He was found by a member of the public at The Bunny Hill Primary Care Centre car park who took him home and called the RSPCA. 

Midnight’s owner Hayley McGee said: “I let him out at 6.15pm on Wednesday and apparently he was found around 6.45pm. 

“I’m shocked that someone who lives nearby could do such an awful thing. 

“Midnight was very much loved and we are crushed that he’s been taken from us in this way.”

Midnight could not use his back legs and when he was taken to a vet practice and x-rayed they found he had a bullet in his spine.

The vet decided he needed to be put to sleep on humane grounds.

RSPCA inspector Rachael Hurst, who is investigating, said: “This was a very cruel act which has resulted in Midnight’s suffering and death and an enormous amount of distress to his family.

“Causing unnecessary suffering in this way carries a six-month prison sentence and unlimited fine.

“If anyone has any specific information about what happened please call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for me.”

Hayley got worried when Midnight had not come home the following day and was scrolling through Facebook when she saw the news. 

She said: “I can’t save Midnight but whoever did this is still out there and if I can save another pet I want to.

“If you know who did this please call the RSPCA. I know what we’re going through and I don’t want anyone else to have to feel this way.”