A Christchurch man has appeared in Christchurch District Court today accused of shooting his cats on his 58th birthday.
Donald Gordon Sloan appeared at a status hearing in the court today, and was remanded for further reports to be prepared.
Police said Sloan's two cats were found shot dead at his Dallington house on August 30.
He originally faced three charges of firing a rifle at the house so as to endanger property.
Police prosecutor Stewart Sluis said it was difficult to charge Sloan with endangering his own property, and asked for the three charges to be withdrawn, which was granted by Judge Christopher Somerville.
Instead, the police have now laid a charge of being in possession of a Winchester rifle "except for some lawful, proper, and sufficient purpose".
Judge Somerville remanded Sloan on bail until a further status hearing on December 7.
