RSPCA Cymru is appealing for information after a cat was poisoned in Caerphilly, and has warned residents to remain vigilant.
The four-year-old cat, named Jack, returned unwell to its home in Heol Y Ddol, Caerphilly, having been outside on Friday October 21.
The black and white cat was sick several times, and couldn’t walk or move, causing its owner Nicola Penfold to take it to a vet.
There, it was confirmed the cat had been poisoned, and was euthanised on veterinary advice.
Jack’s owner Nicola Penfold said: “I can honestly say I am completely devastated by what happened. A pet isn’t just a pet, they become part of your family, and knowing he was taken away in such a painful way, knowing he suffered, has made it even worse.”
RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: “Our thoughts are with Jack’s owner who must be extremely upset at this sad time.
“Jack doesn’t stray from home very far, so it is likely that this happened nearby. But what we don’t know if this was accidental or deliberate, so we are appealing for anyone with information to give us a call.
“Sadly many cats are victims of poisonings, and we urge anyone who suspects that their cat has been poisoned to take them to their vets straight away and for cat owners in the area to remain vigilant.”
Potential signs of poisoning could include vomiting, seeming depressed or sleepy, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, seizures, difficulty breathing, increased thirst, increased urination.
Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA inspectorate information line on 0300 123 8018. Calls will be treated in confidence.
Poisoning a cat deliberately is a criminal offence. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the maximum penalty for those found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a cat is up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000.