A woman has been left "devastated" after he cat was "poisoned" by anti-freeze. Tracy Richardson, who had two cats, noticed they were both behaving strangely after returning home one day.
Tracy felt the pair looked "drunk" as they were stumbling about. She rushed the duo to the vets to find out what was wrong - and ended up with a diagnoses that left her shocked.
The vet believes the cats drank anti-freeze, reports CoventryLive. Tracy's cats both died after drinking the anti-freeze, leading to her thinking it could have been left out "on purpose".
Now Tracy, who lives in Coventry, has warned other pet owners to be aware of the signs of anti-freeze poisoning before it is too late. On Facebook she wrote: "If you have cats, please be aware two of mine have died due to drinking antifreeze. The vet thinks someone may be putting it out on purpose.
"Symptoms are your cat looks drunk, staggering, then very quiet, vomiting blood, then kidney failure. Please if you use antifreeze, put it away.
"It is very sweet to taste for cats, but deadly for all humans and animals. If you know anyone in my area that is doing this awful thing please either let me know or report to police or RSPCA. Please don't let this cruelty continue."
Facebook users shared heartfelt comments sending their condolences for the loss of her pets. One commented: "How sad. I'm so sorry to hear this. I really hope this is an accident and not on purpose."
Why is anti-freeze dangerous for pets?
Anti-freeze poisoning is a major hazard to pets during cold winter months. It can become accessible when anti-freeze leaks from a car's radiator or spills on the ground while being sprayed on frozen car windows.
The RSPCA has warned about the toxic substance. If you suspect your pet has drunk anti-freeze, you should go to your vet immediately.
RSPCA pet welfare specialist Dr Sam Gaines said: "Antifreeze and rock salt - commonly used at this time of year - can be poisonous to pets so keep any stored products out of their reach. If you’re concerned your pet may have ingested anything they shouldn’t, please speak to your vet immediately."
