Up to nine cats dead in Tile Hill after being poisoned

[dutchman]

Up to nine cats are believed to have died after being poisoned in the same area of Coventry.



Pet owners have been put on alert after the suspected poisonings in the Alan Marcell Close area of Tile Hill.

The RSPCA says five cats have died within 48 hours as a result of poisoning, possibly from anti-freeze.

But the charity believes the number of cats to have died could actually be as high as nine.

Anti-freeze can lead to kidney failure and death - even if a cat ingests only a small amount.

The incidents regarding the five cats confirmed dead were reported to the RSPCA between October 8 and 10.

The moggies were taken to vets but had to be put to sleep as vets could do no more to save them.

Test results have not yet confirmed the causes of death but it is understood that the cats displayed symptoms of poisoning.

It is not yet known if the poisoning incidents are connected or deliberate, but the RSPCA has issued a stark warning to any potential culprits.

It has also urged pet owners to remain extra vigilant.

Ben Jones, an RSPCA animal welfare officer, said: “It is really sad to hear that so many cats have died in such a short space of time and while we do not know if this was deliberate or accidental, we do want to remind people that deliberately poisoning an animal could mean a £20,000 fine and/or six months in prison under the Animal Welfare Act.

“If anyone has any information about this incident or any related incidents they are urged to contact the RSPCA.

”Signs that a pet could have been poisoned vary and can include depression, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties and bad breath twitching or seizures.

Owners concerned that their pet may have been poisoned should contact a vet as soon as possible.

The RSPCA has also warned people to take care when putting down and disposing of substances, such as slug pellets and anti-freeze, to ensure that other animals are not affected.

Anyone with information on the Tile Hill cat deaths can contact the RSPCA appeal line anonymously on 0300 123 8018.