POLICE believe a pet cat may have been shot in the Borders this week.

Two-year-old Neve had to be rushed to the vets after being found injured in the Crookston area of Peebles at 5.20am on Thursday, July 2.

A small number of metal fragments were removed from her injury.

Officers believe she may have been shot with a shotgun or similar firearm.

Constable Barry Taylor of Peebles Police Station said: "This incident has not only caused significant injuries to a family pet but also a great deal of distress and upset to her owner.

"Neve is fortunately well enough to be allowed to return home but she may face longer term issues due to the nature of her injuries.

"Enquiries are ongoing in an effort to confirm how the cat sustained the injuries and I would encourage anyone with any information to get in touch with us on 101, quoting incident number 1101 of July 3, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."