THE RSPCA is searching for "callous cowards" who used an air rifle to shoot what its believed to be the borough’s oldest cat.

Twenty-three-year-old "Chester" is lucky to be alive after a pellet tore through muscle and became lodged in a bone.

Wirral Globe:

Chester recovering at his home in Upton

His owners discovered his injuries when he limped back to his Upton home covered in blood.

They reported the incident to the RSPCA, who have launched an appeal to find those responsible.

Wirral Globe:

X-ray shows Chester's injury

Chester's owner, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Globe: "I am pleased to say that the cat is now home, and although having difficulty in walking properly, is eating well and appears to be recovering.

"I don't understand why anyone would want to subject animals to injuries like this."

Wirral RSPCA Inspector Anthony Joynes said: "It's completely callous and cowardly for someone to be taking pot shots at animals - and it's also a criminal offence.

Wirral Globe:

"The pellet went straight through the muscle and lodged in a bone, which stopped it going through in to the colon.

"His owner noticed something wasn't right when he came home.

"Chester is now recovering at home after his ordeal.

"The poor cat is 23 years old and must be one of Wirral’s oldest living cats.

"His owners have been left with a bill for hundreds of pounds.

"We have dealt with a number of cases of wildlife being shot over the last couple of years."

Anyone with information should call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.