A cat in Upton has had to have reconstructive surgery on his face following an attack by a catapult or similar item.

At around 10.15pm on Monday 15 March the occupants of a home in Watery Lane heard their cat Freddie returning home and came downstairs to discover he had sustained severe facial injuries and with a steel ball bearing embedded in the centre of his face.

They took him to the vet and they were told it was most likely that the ball bearing had been fired from a catapult or similar item. Freddie had to have surgery to remove the ball bearing and his owners are still not sure that he will make a full recovery.

Sergeant Fern Graham, of Poole police, said, “This has been very upsetting for Freddie’s owners to see their pet suffer such nasty injuries as a result of what was believed to have been a deliberate attack.

“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Watery Lane on the evening of Monday 15 March, or has any other information that might assist our enquiries, to please contact us.”

Freddie’s owners said, “We feel it is very important that cats are allowed outside for their own wellbeing and have always allowed our beloved pet to roam free. This incident has really shocked us and left us questioning whether we would be happy for our pet to continue to be let outside.

“We want to raise awareness to other local residents as this could happen again and we wouldn’t wish the pain this has brought us on anyone. Not only has this caused us immeasurable sadness, but it is likely to cost thousands of pounds in veterinary bills.

“If you hear or see anything unusual please report it, we’re sure the perpetrator will do this again and we want to avoid anyone else going through such a traumatic experience that will continue to haunt us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210041658. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.