THE RSPCA is appealing for information after a spate of cat deaths in Dudley.

Cats Cookie and Bisto, from the Stoney Lane area of Netherton, died in suspicious circumstances within a couple of weeks of each other, with the vet suggesting they may have been poisoned.

Both showed symptoms of being lethargic and weak before tragically taking a turn for the worse. One died on March 9 and the other passed away on March 22.

Cookie and Bisto’s owner Lisa Potts, who has another three cats, said: “I don’t understand it as they don’t really venture out far. I just can’t believe it. Bisto and Cookie were part of the family. I am very cautious with my other three cats now.”

Another three cats - which also live in the Stoney Lane area - have also died recently, within days of each other, and it was confirmed by a vet that two had antifreeze in their system.

Matt and Lauren Lowe’s kitten Elsie first became unwell and died before they could seek veterinary help. Shortly after their other two cats then became unwell and tragically did not recover.

They said: “The bloods for Pumpkin and Patch came back confirming antifreeze poisoning which has really concerned us. It is just heartbreaking.”

Both owners contacted the RSPCA which is now investigating.

Animal rescue officer Rachel Ward said: “Our heart goes out to these cat owners who have lost their beloved pets. It is just devastating. We don’t know if these deaths were accidental or deliberate but we are urging anyone with information to contact the animal welfare charity’s inspectorate appeal line 0300 123 8018 - quoting 00831810.

“We’d also urge local cat owners to be vigilant and cautious and to understand the signs of poisoning.”

Vomiting, a depressed or sleepy demeanour, appearing drunk or uncoordinated, seizures, and breathing difficulties could all be symptoms of poisoning.

Anyone fearing their cat may have been poisoned should move their pet away from the source and contact a vet immediately. Potentially hazardous substances - like antifreeze - should also be used and stored responsibly, away from curious felines.

Rachel added: “It is always difficult to determine if cases are accidental incidents or deliberate, however poisoning an animal deliberately is a criminal offence.

“Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the maximum penalty for those found guilty of this offence is up to six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine. Signs of poisoning can be seen anything from 30 minutes after an animal has ingested the chemical, though it can be two or three days before signs of kidney failure are seen.”

Accidental poisonings from spills/leaks, plus leaking water coolant from cars happens every year, leading to pet death. The RSPCA advises people to regularly check their vehicle to ensure it isn't leaking coolant. People are also advised to take care storing, using and disposing of antifreeze and water coolant and are urged keep antifreeze in clearly labelled, robust, sealed containers, away from pets and to clean-up spills immediately and ensure pets cannot access the area until it's safe.

For more information on poisoning visit https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/cats/health/poisoning

To help the RSPCA rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in need visit website or call 0300 123 8181.