Cat owners warned to be vigilant during outbreak of suspected poisonings

Cat owners have been told to stay vigilant amid a spate of suspected poisonings in a Welsh town.

One “devastated” family’s pet had to be put to sleep by vets while another is suspected to have been poisoned by antifreeze.

The RSPCA is investigating several similar incidents in the area around Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, but does not yet know if the poisonings “are deliberate or accidental”.

Luna, a three-year-old cat, was found poisoned in the Ger Y Gwendraeth area on July 29 after it was brought home by neighbours in an unwell state.

‘She couldn’t move or walk’

Ben McQueen, its owner, said: “She was as if she was drunk. She couldn’t move or walk. She didn’t want to do anything or eat anything.”

He took Luna to the vets where blood tests showed signs of poisoning. Luna was given treatment but the vet recommended putting it to sleep after its condition deteriorated.

Mr McQueen said: “We were all just devastated. It has been a massive toll financially and emotionally.

“We are now fearful for our other cats and for the other cats in the neighbourhood.”

Antifreeze is suspected

He said he is also aware that two other cats nearby have been poisoned recently. Antifreeze is suspected in one of the cases.

He added: “We have also heard that this is not the first time cats have been poisoned in the area and that it happened a year or so ago.”

Andrew Harris, an RSPCA animal rescue officer who has been investigating the incidents, said: “Our hearts go out to Luna’s owners and those in the community who have been affected.

“At this stage we do not know if these were accidental incidents or deliberate but we urge the community to be vigilant and be aware of the symptoms of poisoning. If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, take them to a vet immediately.”

The RSPCA has issued an appeal for information and urged people to be responsible when storing chemicals and hazardous substances.

Mr Harris said: “We’d like to remind people to be mindful ‘for every kind’ and for motorists to be careful and ensure chemicals like antifreeze are stored securely, and leaks from cars are addressed. If you have any hazardous materials in outbuildings please make sure they are locked away.

Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, seizures, breathing difficulties, seeming depressed or sleepy, or appearing drunk and uncoordinated.