A CAT that was feared paralysed after it was shot by a pellet gun has started to regain some movement.

Six-year-old Purdie was shot in the spine and vets feared that her left front leg might be permanently weakened or have to be amputated.

But despite needing lifelong medication, the black cat is now doing much better than first predicted, much to the delight of her 80-year-old owner Joyce Holden, who lives in Barrowford.

The news comes as an X-ray picture of the bullet stuck in Purdie’s back was released.

Mrs Holden said: “We have been going backwards and forwards to the vets, but the outcome is quite good.

“She is doing marvellously well and she has come a long way.

“Purdie can get about now, she is recovering great.

“She even gripped the table when the vet tried to pull her off, which is good.

“She can lie on that side and, although she is still limping, she is getting along nicely.

“I am really pleased with her.

“I think she is glad to be alive and I am glad we did not put her down.”

Mrs Holden took Purdie to see vet Richard Appleton, from the Stanley House Veterinary Group surgery, in Colne, after she was found covered in blood in the garage at her home.

She feared that her beloved vet had been attacked by a dog, but tests revealed she had in fact been shot.

The police were informed and an investigation was started to try to find out who had shot Purdie.

Mr Appleton said that when he first saw Purdie’s condition, he was concerned, but was pleased with how well she was now doing.

He said: “We said we could never be sure if she would use the leg again and that it might need to be amputated.

“But we gave her some very heavy pain relief and she responded really well, much better than we thought.

“She is now gaining some use of the leg.”

Officers are still appealing for information from anybody who may have witnessed the attack to call them on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.