A kitten has been killed in what is thought to have been the latest in a worrying rise in imitation gun crimes.

Kizzy, a ten-month-old tabby, was found by her owners highly distressedon Tuesday evening and the next morning could not move.

An examination by her vet revealed a hole the size of a knitting needle in her side going through to her stomach.

Her back leg swelled up severely and she died two days later, because of what is believed to have been an infected pellet wound.

Owner Clare Stafford, 37, of Plymouth Terrace, Bevendean, said: "We're pretty sure she was shot by a BB gun given the nature of her injuries.

"I am in shock.

"The vet said it couldn't have been another animal that caused such injuries and she believes Kizzy was attacked by a human.

"Kizzy was the sweetest, most lovable little thing.

"I understand it could have just been kids joking around so I want them to know the consequences of their actions.

"If they know they killed the cat maybe it will stop them from doing it again."

Kizzy was the beloved pet of Mrs Stafford's son Wesley, 12, who is distraught.

Mrs Stafford said: "Kizzy slept with Wesley every night on his pillow.

"He is so upset and can't believe anyone would hurt her like this.

"He left the house crying this morning."

Mrs Stafford said they wanted cat owners to be vigilant.

She said: "I have already been around all the owners in my area, warning them.

"It's horrific to think someone could do that to a little kitten. I dread to think what my husband would do to whoever is responsible if he caught them."

The bill for Kizzy's 48 hours at the vet cost the Staffords almost £400.

Husband Lee, 41, said: "These people don't realise the grief they are causing to another family when they do something like this, and the financial cost.

"If they did maybe they would think twice."

An RSPCA spokesman said: "This happens too often, unfortunately. It's generally caused by the ignorance of parents who let their children play with guns. Some children seem to find it amusing to shoot animals but they need to know what the consequences can be."

Police at Whitehawk, Brighton, and trading standards have been involved in a number of initiatives in recent years to reduce the risks of BB guns.

It was agreed with the organisers of the Brighton racecourse market to include a clause banning the sale of imitation weapons.

Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Williams said: "These incidents could involve air weapons, BB guns, replicas or even toy guns but they all have one thing in common - to the passer-by or observer they may appear to be a genuine firearm."

Brighton and Hove City Council's trading standards head John Peerless said: "The vast majority of incidents involving imitation weapons are committed by teenagers."

Anyone with any information on who shot Kizzy should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.