A CAT shot twice in a matter of months is recovering at home after vets were forced to amputate his leg.

Tabby cat Pippin was shot in the face and leg on two separate occasions. And last night owner Denise French, of Gwyneth Road, in Littlemore, Oxford, said “enough is enough”.

She said the latest incident had left her pet so badly injured she had no choice but to pay £500 to have his leg cut off.

She said: “I can’t believe somebody could be so vile. Pippin was shot in the face four or five months ago and it shattered his sinuses.

“Then on Friday he was out on the wasteland behind my house and someone with an air gun shot him again.

“He was shot just below the ankle on his right foreleg. I don’t know how he managed to get home with a broken leg because I have an eight-foot fence around my garden.”

Pippin is one of five cats owned by Mrs French.

She said: “I am now considering building an outdoor run so they can still get fresh air but not be at risk.

“Pippin isn’t going to be able to wash himself properly or pounce on a mouse – it’s so cruel.

“He won’t even be able to dig a hole to go to the toilet.

“I want to shame the person who did this.”

The RSPCA and police are investigating the shootings.

RSPCA chief veterinary officer Steve Cheetham described the attacks as “atrocious” adding: “It is very distressing to think people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals.”

Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to animals could face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £20,000, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

It is also illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to be in possession of an air gun without supervision.

Police spokesman Vicky Brandon said: “This is obviously very distressing for the owner – this type of mindless behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Neighbourhood officers are investigating the incident.”

Anyone with information about the attack, should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.