A THREE-year-old cat has died only days after it was shot outside its York home.

Last week, The Press reported that Calvin, a cat belonging to Lorena and Jonathan Healey of Tang Hall, had been subjected to a number of attacks from unknown assailants, and had been shot twice, poisoned, and hit by a car within the last two years.

On Saturday, May 21, Calvin returned home with an airgun pellet lodged in his torso, which vets said had entered just below his ribs and hit his lung.

Lorena said he started to perk up after returning from the vet but then his liver failed.

“The vets said we needed to take him to see a specialist in Liverpool, but on the way he was in so much pain, he just gave up.”

Jonathan thanked the readers who sent their support after reading the original story.

He said: “This brave cat, who fought his way home over fences and roofs with a mortal wound in his side, finally ran out of the strength to fight. He will be dearly, dearly missed.

“Thank you to all of you who have posted kind and supportive comments.”

Lorena said the family was very upset by Calvin’s death, and handed out leaflets following his shooting to ask for help finding his attacker. “We’ve been crying for two days, clearing up all his things. Our other cat, Hobbs, keeps looking for him and looking for comfort.

“We’ve paid about £600 for Calvin’s treatment this time, and we’re not sure if our insurance will cover it.”

North Yorkshire Police said they were still investigating the incident, and urged anyone with information to phone 0845 6060247.