A Canterbury family is grieving the loss of their beloved cat who died after being shot by an air rifle. Now, the family want answers.
Monty the British Shorthair was just nine years old when he became unwell.
"He had this random cough and sneeze. He was off his food and spewing a bit," Monty's owner Tegan Bray said.
Two visits to the vet later, an X-ray showed he had a bullet in his chest.
"He had survived with the bullet for three weeks. The bullet didn't kill him straight away, but it caused a build-up of fluid in his lungs."
Despite a number of attempts to save Monty's life, and almost $4000 in vet bills, he died of his injuries.
"He was a wedding present from my hubby, was by my side for the home birth of my daughter, slept by my kiln when I worked in my studio. Really do feel like I've lost a limb," Bray said.
A report has been filed with both the SPCA and police.
An SPCA spokesperson told 1News it is making inquiries.
"Information relating to this complaint is scant so anyone with information or evidence is encouraged to contact SPCA.
"SPCA advocates for companion cats to be kept at home safe from harm and to promote positive welfare."
In New Zealand, cats have the right to roam freely, allowing them to trespass on properties beyond their owners'. The ill treatment of animals, including the use of traps or devices that may cause pain or distress, is a crime punishable under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.
Bray claimed Monty was not the only cat that had been targeted.
"I've heard of four other cats in Lincoln that have had bullet wounds, or died suddenly and later found out there was bullet wounds."
She also claimed that an "exceptional amount" of purebred cats have also gone missing.
SPCA and the police said they have each received one report of a cat being shot in Lincoln.
By Breakfast's Claudia Toxopeus
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