CAMPAIGNERS are lobbying the government after a number of cats have been shot by air guns.

Cats Protection, the UK's main cat charity delivered the 100,000 strong petition to Downing Street as part of their campaign for stricter legislation on the guns.

The SNJ reported on this issue in June last year, after a much-loved lilac tabby named Percy was shot with an air gun in Ebley.

Percy was rushed to Clockhouse Vets in Bowbridge, but sadly despite their best efforts the cat passed away.

Head of government relations, for Cats Protection, Jacqui Cuff said: "We know that 90 per cent of reported air gun attacks on cats happen in England and Wales.

"Laws on air guns in Scotland and Northern Ireland are much tighter, and we believe this should apply for the whole of the UK."

Additionally, a Cirencester woman's pet was shot in the head in 2013, fortunately the cat survived, but only after suffering painful injuries.

“Cats who are shot with air guns can suffer horrific and often fatal injuries, we have heard stories of cats losing eyes, limbs and being left with life-changing injuries, added Jacqui.

A 2016 Cats Protection survey found that almost half of vets questioned, 44 per cent, had treated cats which had been the victim of attacks by air-powered weapons in the year.

Unfortunately nearly half of these cats died.

To find out more please visit cats.org.uk/airgunspetition