RSPCA investigates spate of suspected cat poisonings in Wirral

May 16 2012 by Helen Hunt, Birkenhead News

ANIMAL welfare officers are appealing for information after a spate of suspected cat poisonings in Wirral.

RSPCA officers said they cannot be certain whether someone has targeted the cats deliberately, or whether the cats have eaten poison accidentally.

Three cats – all belonging to owners on Caldwell Drive, in the Woodchurch area of Wirral – have been found dead or dying in the space of the past few months.

The most recent cat was found on May 8, sparking RSPCA officers’ suspicions that something may be amiss.

The owners were said to be “very distressed” at the loss of their family pet.

John Littlewood, RSPCA officer in Wirral, said the third cat was taken to Upton Vets, where blood tests revealed poison was to blame for the pet’s death.

He said: “We got a report that three cats have died in the same manner. Only one of them has been to Upton Vets. It died there and several things, such as renal failure, had all the hallmarks of poisoning. Blood tests came back and they said it was consistent with poisoning.

“This could be an accidental thing. We’re not saying it is a deliberate act.

“We would like to appeal for information anyone may have, but we would also like to make sure that people are aware of the need to store chemicals safely.

“Rat poison, slug pellets, anti-freeze, weed killer are all common household goods but can be lethal to an animal.”

Call 0300 1234 999 if you can help.