Two cats are back home after surviving what police believe were separate shootings in Gloucester County, New Jersey.
Both animals suffered devastating injuries, with one losing a leg and the other losing an eye. Now, West Deptford police are investigating what happened, while the veterinary team that treated the cats is urging pet owners to take precautions.
Police said they were alerted to the incidents Friday by a Epic Vet Urgent Care in Cherry Hill, where the cats were being treated for suspected gunshot wounds.
Both cats suffered life-threatening injuries consistent with wounds caused by a small-caliber firearm or pellet gun, according to police.
The veterinary team confirmed the cats came from two separate households in West Deptford and required major surgeries.
“One needed a leg amputation, and the other needed an enucleation, which is surgical removal of an eye,” the veterinary team said.
Despite the severity of their injuries, both cats survived and are now recovering at home with their families.
Investigators said one incident occurred near Ford and May avenues in West Deptford, while the other happened near Crown Point Road and Church Street. Both animals are outdoor cats and were outside when they were injured.
As investigators work to determine what happened, the veterinary team is encouraging neighbors to take extra precautions, particularly if their cats spend time outdoors.
“If your cat spends time outdoors, please consider keeping them inside for now, especially overnight and at dawn and dusk,” the veterinary team said.
The team also urged pet owners to check their cats for limping, swelling, small puncture wounds or changes in behavior after they return home.
“Gunshot and pellet wounds can be very small and easy to miss under fur,” the veterinary team said.
West Deptford police are asking anyone with information about either incident to contact them.
