A KITTEN had its leg broken after being shot in Birchwood.

Eight-month-old Alice was hit by an air rifle near to Whitethroat Walk on the evening of Saturday, June 22.

The beloved pet’s front left leg was ‘shattered’ during the horrifying attack.

Warrington Guardian:

An X-ray showing Alice's broken leg and two air rifle pellets

Owner Laura Maclean, who has four cats in total, said: “When I noticed all the blood on her back and the puncture wound, I thought it might have been one of the other cats biting her.

“When the vet told me what had happened I just broke down crying – who could do that to a defenceless animal?

“Thank god she’s actually alive.”

Warrington Guardian:

Alice underwent surgery on Wednesday last week, having to have pins and plates inserted into her fractured leg.

Laura’s pet insurance will only cover £900 of the estimated £1,900 medical bills, but kind-hearted residents have so far donated more than £700 in support.

The kitten is now recovering at home, with Laura having adopted her ‘little fur baby’ from Cats Protection in January.

Warrington Guardian:

Laura's four cats

She added: “I think she has been shot near to where I live, otherwise she wouldn’t have been able to get home.

“Her leg was completely shattered, and she’d have had to jump up as well because I’m in a first-floor flat – she’s done well to actually get home.

“I’m just flabbergasted that someone could actually shoot her.

READ > Slimmer shares weightloss secrets after shedding four stone in just six months

“But it’s restored my faith in human beings that they can be so kind and to donate so much money for my little fur baby.”

Warrington Guardian:

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML436222, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

To donate, click here.