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A CAT has been shot with a crossbow after a demonstration in a man's back garden went horribly wrong.

Smokey, a female grey and white cat, was hit with the crossbow bolt after coming out from under a trampoline in the garden in Taunton, Somerset.

The owner the crossbow was demonstrating how it worked to a friend when Smokey was hit, piercing her lung.

The cat is recovering well in the care of staff at the RSPCA's West Hatch animal centre after having the deadly bolt removed from her body.

Her owners were notified shortly after the incident and it is hoped that Smokey will be able to return home soon.

RSPCA inspector Jo Daniel said: "People should remember that crossbows are a weapon and their use should not be taken lightly.

(Image: SWNS)

"It only takes one mistake and a life could be at stake - either that of an animal or even a human, so it is essential that the right precautions are taken when using a potentially deadly instrument such as this.

"Being responsible and gaining the right experience before using any weapon is absolutely key and will ensure that nasty accidents like this do not happen."

Ms Daniel said that although crossbows are not illegal, they should be used in a safe environment.

"Misuse of a weapon such as in this shocking incident is dangerous and costly and Smokey is just lucky to have survived such a devastating ordeal," she said.

"Some other animals that have faced similar injuries from attacks such as these have not been so lucky.

"In this case this was an unfortunate accident but sadly people do also deliberately target animals in this way - something that will never be tolerated.

"Deliberately harming an animal is a prosecutable offence and those committing such an offence can face a fine and up to six months in prison."