Cat killer: were five pets targeted by same poisoner? (From Thisisdorset)

Cat killer: were five pets targeted by same poisoner?

9:00am Saturday 4th August 2012 in Latest By Juliette Astrup

A heartless cat killer is believed to be targeting pets after five suspected poisonings in the same road.

The RSPCA has had recorded two confirmed poisonings with antifreeze – one cat died in April another on Tuesday this week after vets struggled to save it for two days.

Owners and the local RSPCA inspector Graham Hammond believe as many as three further animals may have died in the same way, also in Allens Road, Hamworthy.

Inspector Hammond told the Echo: “There were reports of several cats being killed by ingesting antifreeze in the same road in April.

“It is a worrying development that we have another case in the same area.

He added: “These cats suffer enormously through this and eventually their organs fail – it’s a horrendous way to go.”

He said he felt it was a “deliberate attempt to poison cats,” adding: “There just seems too many to be coincidental,” but didn’t rule out the possibility of accidental poisoning.

“It may well be that the cats are drinking it accidentally, such as from a fountain or water feature dosed with antifreeze to prevent the water from freezing but members of the public should take care in storing and using antifreeze.

“I would also urge neighbours and communities to join together and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.

“If anyone is aware of any deliberate cruelty to animals they can report it to our cruelty line on 0300 123 4999.

“If anyone has any information about this specific incident they should call our inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

“Perpetrators should be aware that deliberate poisoning using antifreeze could mean for example a £20,000 fine and/or six months in prison under the Animal Welfare Act.”