Mr Mistoffelees: Katina Andreou’s cat

AN URGENT appeal for information has been launched by RSPCA Cymru following fears of up to 20 possible cat poisonings in a Pembrokeshire village.

The charity is investigating, after two Cilgerran cats were put to sleep at Priory Vets in Cardigan, having been found to have acute kidney failure – which vets believed to be a consequence of poisoning.

A third cat died at the veterinary practice the previous weekend, exhibiting similar symptoms.

Worryingly the death of the three cats follows reports of a number of local cats going missing in recent months.

The circumstances behind the recent poisonings, and the missing cats, is unclear – and RSPCA Cymru is urging anyone with relevant information to contact the charity’s inspectorate appeal line.

RSPCA Cymru is also urging local cat owners to be vigilant, and understand the symptoms of a poisoning incident, and what to do if this happens to their cat.

Holly Brown, RSPCA inspector, said: “It isn’t clear whether these poisonings were deliberate, or a tragic accident, but we are deeply saddened to learn of the three cats who have recently died in Cilgerran.

“Anyone with any pertinent information is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, with all calls treated in confidence.

“We’d also remind local cat owners as to the importance of acting with vigilance at this time.

“If a poisoning is suspected, it’s important the owner remains calm, moves the animal away from any suspected source of poison, and contacts a vet straight away.”

One Cilgerran resident, Katina Andreou, had not seen her black and white cat Mr. Mistoffelees since June 16. He was found dead on the evening of June 29. Her research has uncovered numerous local cats to the Cilgerran area who have gone missing, and not returned.

Ms Andreou said: “I was finding that I seemed to always be sharing missing cat posts from the Cilgerran area. We’re a small village, and it seemed unusual to see so many posts about cats that had gone missing.

“Sadly, one of our cats – Mr. Mistoffelees – went missing on June 16, and was found dead on the evening of June 29. We’re speaking to vets to see if we can find out what happened to him.

“These poisoning incidents, and the missing cats, are all from properties within a 10-minute walking radius.

“There could be an innocent explanation for why the recent poisoning events happened, but I’m really eager to work with RSPCA Cymru and other agencies to raise awareness.

“We’re also asking local people to check their garages or consider ways a poisonous substance could accidentally be consumed by a pet.”

Should you wish to help the RSPCA, you can give £3 now by texting LOVE to 87023 (text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).