CONCERNS have been raised over suspected cat attacks in the Ffestiniog area of Gwynedd.

RSPCA Cymru is appealing for information after a number of “worrying” incidents were reported.

The charity was called out by a cat owner after four of their pet cats were found with injuries over a two week period.

The owner first noticed one of her cats had a swollen and sore base of its tail.

They assumed it must have had it caught in a door accidentally. Then a few days later, another cat came in with a similar injury.

A few days later again, a third cat came home with an infected facial wound that turned out to be a pellet gun shot when treated by the vet.

Then a few days later again, a fourth cat came home with injuries to the base of its tail, and wounds to its front paw. Another cat in the area has also been reportedly shot with a pellet gun, and another cat has returned home with multiple facial wounds.

The first cat which was injured has also been missing for five days.

RSPCA inspector Andy Broadbent said: “It is very unusual in my experience for cats to have these types of tail injuries.

"Often they are damaged mid tail or towards the tip, but the base is both the strongest part of the tail, and the furthest from common sources of damage.

“Combined with pellet gun injuries and facial/front paw wounds, these are very worrying and concerning reports. Although we only have suspicions, we don’t know what has happened here and would ask for anyone with any information to get in touch.”

RSPCA Cymru is now appealing for information to try and find out how these cats have been injured.

If you have any information please call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. Calls are treated in confidence.

Inspector Broadbent added: “Our thoughts are with the owners of these cats and hope that the injuries heal quickly and that they recover well. We’d also like to urge cat owners in the local area to remain vigilant, and if their cat is found injured to contact their vet immediately.”

The owner of the four cats said luckily they have all survived their attacks, but are now worried as one of their cats has gone missing.

“When is it going to stop? Do we have to lock our cats inside? They actually don’t want to go outside now, they are very nervous.

“At the end of the day these animals are part of the family. I just don’t know what goes through their heads to do this. It is shocking and disturbing.”

If you wish to help RSPCA Cymru, you can donate online. The RSPCA is a charity and relies on public donations.