A CAT shot by an air rifle has had the bullets removed in a life-saving operation.

Milo the cat was shot last month, and owner Julia Payne is hoping to raise £1,200 to pay for the surgery carried out earlier this week.

She said: “It’s awful. His leg has been fixed but he will have screws holding his bones together for the rest of his life.

“I don’t know who did it or how it happened, but I rushed him to the vets when I saw he couldn't walk. They confirmed his leg was broken, and found he’d been shot on other side too.

“I don’t know what kind of person would do this. He’s such a friendly, loving cat.”

Julia, who lives in Hastings, said Milo had been on strong painkillers and had taken a turn for the worse after he was first brought home.

“The bullets were removed successfully, but during this process Milo had a bleed so he was very poorly and had to stay with the vets. He had a high temperature and became very downcast. He cannot walk due to his broken leg.

“Milo is doing a little better now, but we are desperate to raise any funds to help him, otherwise we will be forced to sign him over to the vet where he will be adopted by someone else.”

“His best friend Lexi the pug is missing him at home. Thank you for your amazing support and donations. We are so close to the target."