A Teenager has been arrested after one cat died and others were seriously hurt in a series of “sadistic and violent” air rifle Shootings.

The 18-year-old man was Held on suspicion of criminal damage in connection with attacks in the Cranleigh and Guildford areas of Surrey.

At least four cats were targeted in the shootings that took place between 22 March and 1 April.

One of them – five-year-old Ruby – was shot in the spine and was later put down by vets.

In another attack, a cat called Coco was reported to have lost an eye.

Police said the incidents have “caused a great deal of upset and distress in the community”.

The arrested teenager has been released on bail until 2 June pending further inquiries.

Surrey Police said it “would like to thank those who came forward with information but urge anybody else who witnessed any of these incidents or with any information to get in touch”.

The PETA charity – People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals – condemned the shootings as “sadistic and violent acts”.

It also offered a £2,000 reward for information leading to a conviction.

Police told Sky News there was nothing to suggest there was any connection to a number of cat killings in the Croydon area where felines have been decapitated and they are “keeping an open mind”.