Hundreds of pounds have been raised for the surgery of a cat rescued by Johnstone Cat Rescue after it was shot with an airgun.

Two cats were previously found abandoned at the Gleniffer Braes, Paisley, by volunteer Robert Woods, who managed to transport both of them to the charity's vet.

It was found that the two moggies, named Ellie and Stan, were not chipped or neutered.

Ellie was given antibiotics and pain relief to treat a slight limp but it soon became clear that her injury was not the result of a bump or sprain.

The Gazette:

Following an X-ray, it was revealed she had been shot with an airgun and the pellet had fractured her foreleg.

Ellie's elbow has been fused together as a result of the injury, causing her pain and limited mobility.

Margaret Finnigen, of Johnstone Cat Rescue, said: "The resulting news is not good - Ellie's leg will have to be amputated, there is no other way to remove the source of the pain. 

"This attack on a defenceless little cat has left us devastated and heartbroken that she'll have to endure surgery."

The Gazette:

Since Monday, donations have poured into a JustGiving page set up by the charity to raise money to pay for Ellie's operation.

So far, more than £1,600 has been raised towards the cause, with many sharing their disgust at the act of cruelty that led to Ellie requiring surgery.

One said: "I hope who did this heinous act gets caught."

Another added: "Some people are beyond cruel, but this page proves there are plenty of kind folk too."

The Gazette:

Johnstone Cat Rescue has said that any surplus funds raised on the JustGiving page will go towards helping their other rescue cats.

Margaret added: "We are completely gobsmacked with the response to Ellie's appeal. 

"We knew it would be good but it's better than good! 

"Saying thanks to you all sounds so in adequate but we're saying it anyway - thank you."

If you would like to donate to the appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/margaret-finnigen-115.