The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word LAM
L
A
M
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "pelt" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case pelt = lam.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LAM mean?
LAM verb- To beat or thrash.
- To flee or run away.
- The twenty-third letter of the Arabic alphabet, ل. It is preceded by ك and followed by م.