A Toronto woman came home Sunday from a night out with friends to find her front door riddled with bullets and her cat, Simba, suffering from a gunshot wound.

The pet was rushed to the vet, but later died.

Residents told CBC News they heard loud noises overnight Saturday, but never imagined it could be gunfire in their usually quiet neighbourhood of Riverdale.

This cat was shot overnight Saturday while its owner was out with friends. Police are investigating the shooting in a usually quiet Toronto neighbourhood. (CBC)

"We heard three crash sounds. There was a moment where someone said, 'Could it be a gun shot.' But we quickly dismissed him — it's probably a firework or something," neighbour Jil Worthy said.

Officers are investigating the shooting, which took place at First and Logan avenues.

Police are not releasing the homeowner's name.