A cat owner called for more restrictions on air rifles after his pet was seriously wounded when it was shot by thugs.

Harvey, a black-and-white three-year-old cat, must remain caged for up to six weeks while he recovers from a serious wound to a back leg.

Vets have told his owner, Neil Clarke, 25, of Queensbury, the leg might have to be amputated if surgery to correct a bone shattered by the pellet proves unsuccessful. Mr Clarke, a trainee teacher, said Harvey dragged himself home after the attack on playing fields near Chapel Lane, leaving a trail of blood behind him.

He said: “Something really needs to be done about the fact that people can wander around with these rifles. I’m glad there wasn’t a child playing up there and that it didn’t hit Harvey’s head, otherwise I don’t think he would still be with us.”

“I’m gutted about it all and it’s upset the family. I am disgusted that somebody thinks it’s okay to do this and it’s some kind of sport to them.”

So far this year the RSPCA has had 195 complaints, collections and rescues related to airgun misuse in the North of England.

RSPCA chief inspector Heidi Jenner, who works in Bradford, said: “Unfortunately, we see far too many cases of injuries inflicted by air guns every year. It’s very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals. I would urge anyone who witnesses any such act to contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 or police.”

Anyone with information about the cat attack can contact PCSO Geoff Woodrow, of Queensbury Neighbourhood Policing Team, on (01924) 376625.

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to be in possession of an air gun without supervision under the Violent Crime Reduction Bill 2006.