Carers were left shocked after discovering the "heartbreaking" reason behind a cat's runny nose. 

When 10-year-old Butler arrived at West Norfolk Cats Protection Centre in Downham Market he was suffering with severe gum disease and symptoms of cat flu, including a discharge from his left nostril.

After he was feeling a bit better, an X-ray was ordered in the hopes of finding the cause behind his issues.

Butler during his time in careButler during his time in care (Image: Cats Protection West Norfolk) But staff members couldn't believe it when the results showed Butler had a gun pellet lodged in his face, just above his upper tooth.

It is believed he had been shot some time ago and the wound had since healed over the pellet. 

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As Butler showed no signs of improvement, the centre decided the best thing for him was to undergo an operation to remove the pellet.

Deputy centre manager, Stacey Ely, said: “To give Butler the best chance of a healthy future, it was deemed in his interests to undergo the surgery, which also saw two teeth extracted.

The X-ray revealed a gun pellet was lodged in Butler's faceThe X-ray revealed a gun pellet was lodged in Butler's face (Image: Cats Protection West Norfolk)

“Butler’s true personality came out after his recovery and he became an affectionate cat who loved a fuss.

"He has been adopted by a lovely new owner who has already fallen in love with him.”

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The complex operation came at a significant cost to the charity, which is now asking for donations towards the £2,000 bill via JustGiving.

Ms Ely added: “It was heartbreaking to learn that Butler had been the victim of a gunshot and to think someone may have deliberately targeted a defenceless cat.

The extracted pelletThe extracted pellet (Image: Cats Protection West Norfolk)

Butler in his new homeButler in his new home (Image: Cats Protection West Norfolk) “It was a real case of teamwork to get to the bottom of Butler’s poor health and to know that his future will be rosy and pain-free gives us an enormous sense of achievement.

“We appreciate anyone that can spare even a few pennies to support our fundraising so we can continue to help more vulnerable cats like Butler.”