COLFAX —

Clinger the Colfax Cat is one tough kitten.

He’s so tough, he chases down dogs.

“Honestly he’s strong because I can’t believe he made it back from that,” said Clinger’s owner, Kris Nolan.

He survived a vicious attack—shot eight times in late June. His wounds are still healing.

“It just seems like willful intent to kill an animal,” Nolan said.

Vets say Clinger was shot by a pellet gun.

Its owners, Kris and Tanya Nolan say Clinger spent the night outside of their apartment when the incident occurred.

“At first I was in disbelief. Like no way, I can’t believe it,” Nolan said.

The couple reported the shooting to Placer County Animal Services. Investigators are looking into the case and searching for leads. The person responsible could face major consequences.

“If we can get a prosecution, it is prosecutable either as a felony or a misdemeanor,” said Mike Winters, of Placer County Animal Services.

Kris hopes detectives make an arrest.

But his focus right now is making sure Clinger gets better and doesn’t wander off again

“If he comes outside, he will not leave our sight,” Nolan said.