Growing concerns over alleged pellet gun attacks on domestic animals have left Northcliff residents calling for stronger intervention after several cats were reportedly shot in recent months.

One of the most distressing incidents involved the Wright family’s Cornish rex cat (Kimba), which returned home injured shortly before the Easter weekend after being away for only about 14 minutes.

Initially believed to have been struck by a vehicle, veterinary examinations later found that the cat had a pellet lodged in its eye socket. A CT scan uncovered a second pellet in its abdomen, which had caused severe internal injuries that ultimately proved fatal.

According to Vanessa Wright, security camera footage showed the cat returning from the direction of a nearby property shortly after leaving home, although no direct evidence identifies where it was shot.

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She said the incident has changed their perception of safety within the neighbourhood and believes raising awareness may help prevent similar cases. They further alleged that other residents have also reported cats being shot, while concerns have been raised about individuals allegedly using pellet guns to shoot birds.

The Randburg SPCA confirmed it has responded to several incidents involving domestic animals and wildlife allegedly being shot with pellet guns in recent months. General manager and inspector Kaylie Wilson said while it is difficult to determine whether the incidents represent an increasing trend, every report is treated as a serious animal welfare concern. “Deliberately injuring an animal is unacceptable, regardless of the weapon used,” Wilson said.

She explained that the SPCA investigates every complaint by gathering evidence, obtaining veterinary reports, interviewing witnesses and working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) where criminal offences may have been committed.

Because one of the matters remains under SAPS investigation, Wilson said the SPCA could not comment on the specific evidence or circumstances surrounding the case, as doing so could compromise the investigation.

She urged residents who witness suspected animal cruelty to report it to their nearest SPCA immediately, preserve photographs, videos and witness information where it is safe to do so, and avoid confronting suspected offenders. “Every animal is capable of experiencing pain, fear and distress and deserves to be treated with care and compassion. Pellet guns are not toys, and using them to deliberately injure animals is both cruel and, in many cases, a criminal offence.”

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Sergeant Michael Kgatla of Fairland police confirmed that a case has been opened following the reported shooting of a pet and is working on the matter together with the community and the SPCA.

Impact of pellet guns on domestic animals and wildlife

• Pellet gun injuries can cause significant pain, suffering and, in some cases, death.
• Depending on where an animal is struck, pellets can penetrate vital organs, fracture bones, damage eyes, or become lodged beneath the skin, resulting in severe pain, infection and long-term complications.
• Wildlife may also suffer prolonged suffering if injured and unable to forage or return to their natural habitat. Even where an animal survives, the physical and psychological effects can be considerable.

Legal consequences for intentionally injuring or killing animals with pellet guns

Anyone who intentionally causes unnecessary suffering to an animal may face prosecution under the Animal Protection Act 71 of 1962. Depending on the circumstances, SAPS may also investigate additional criminal offences. Where there is sufficient evidence, the SPCA will institute prosecution where it is empowered to do so.

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