A thug shot and wounded a pet cat in the stomach.

Owners of a white and tabby cat, called Angel, found her unwell at their home in Shillbrook Avenue, Carterton, at about 11.30pm on Friday.

After taking her to a vet they discovered Angel had been shot and a pellet was removed from the stomach during an operation.

She is now at home and recovering well, a police spokesman said: Pc Robert Offord, of Witney police, said: "This cruel and callous act has caused Angel's owners much heartache as well as leaving them with a £1,000 vet bill.

"I am particularly interested in talking to anyone who saw someone using a BB gun or air rifle in the Shillbrook Avenue area any time on Friday.

"Even if you know of anyone locally who owns a weapon like this, I would like to hear from you."

Anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.