Three cats have now been killed in Aldershot

The disfigured cat was discovered in Aldershot in the garden of its elderly owner's home during the lead up to Christmas.

Its owners contacted police after reading an article in a newspaper about another cat that died in the neighbouring village of Ash after being shot and having its tail cut off.

Then vets in Aldershot reported that a cat had to be put down after being found in Cambridge Road, paralysed by an airgun pellet.

Hampshire Constabulary are investigating both incidents and liaising with Surrey Police about the cat killed in Ash.

'Sickening attacks'

They are also looking into whether all three cat deaths are connected with the death of a cat found decapitated in Laws Terrace, Aldershot, in May 2003.

PC Andy Jones said: "We need to find out who is behind these sickening attacks.

"It's a terrible thing to happen to the cats and also for the owners who are left distraught after making the gruesome discoveries.

"I want to hear from anyone else whose cat has been attacked in this way.