A distraught couple are warning pet owners to be vigilant after their cat was shot and killed close to their home.
Brian and Annabel Radville, who live in Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, were devastated to find their cat, Elwood, had been shot.
He was likely to have suffered considerable before dying, according to the vet who examined his body.
Elwood's body was found on Copthall Road East, which connects with Mr and Mrs Radville's road in Ickenham.
The couple are urging other owners to do their utmost to keep their pets safe.
"Elwood was born in our house, together with his brother Jake," Mr Radville said. "We had taken in his mother, Pebbles, not realising she was pregnant but all three cats have been members of our family ever since."
Elwood didn't return to the family home after going out at night on Friday, May 9.
Mr Radville said: "We hoped that he'd just got locked in somewhere and would find his way out but there was no sign of him on Saturday and, on Sunday morning, we had a call from some people on Copthall Road East who had found him, dead, in their garden.
"We were devastated and took him to the vet to try to find out what had happened. When the vet found the bullet entry wound and the bullet in his body, we were horrified."
The incident has been reported to police but the Radville's wanted to send a message to other pet owners in the hope of preventing other pets from suffering the same fate.
Vet William Woodley, from Goddard Veterinary Group, said: "Sadly, reports of cats being shot are not uncommon.
"I've cared for Elwood since he was a kitten so I was personally very sad to realise what had happened.
"I recommend that all local animal owners keep a close eye on their pets. If you notice a change in their behaviour - if they're, for instance, hiding themselves away, or if you notice a wet patch on their fur, please do check them for any sign of injury."
