THE RSPCA has launched an investigation after several cats in Redditch have died from suspected poisoning.

The animal welfare charity was contacted after three cats from the same household died in suspicious circumstances in Prospect Road North last month.

Blood tests later revealed that their deaths were consistent with antifreeze poisoning.   

Two, six-month-old kittens are also said to have died suddenly on the same road and a further incident was reported to the charity by a resident in nearby Huins Close after several of his cats exhibited seizures and passed away before he could take them to a vet.

At the end of August, another householder in Prospect Road North had to have his cat put to sleep, with a vet noting that the animal’s throat and insides had been burnt.

RSPCA inspector Claire Davey, who is investigating the cases, said: “These are such sad and upsetting incidents and we extend our sympathies to the owners of all the cats who have lost their lives and urge pet owners in the local area to be vigilant. 

“At this stage, we don’t know if these were accidental incidents or deliberate attempts to cause harm, but in the meantime, we would ask everyone who lives in this vicinity to check where they keep their pesticides and chemicals and make sure they are secure and out of the way.

“Many different substances can poison pets so it’s vital that owners are aware of the signs and act quickly by taking their animal to a vet immediately, along with a sample, if possible, of what they have eaten or drunk.”

The charity has advised pet owners to look out for signs of poisoning which can be seen anything from 30 minutes after an animal has ingested the chemical.

Symptoms include vomiting, seeming depressed or sleepy, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, seizures and difficulty breathing.