Cats poisoned with anti-freeze in Littleborough

Bobby - one of three cats recently poisoned with anti-freeze

Three cats have died after being poisoned with anti-freeze around Stott Street and Holland Street, Littleborough. 

A local vet carried out post mortems and confirmed the diagnosis.

Louise Eames, whose 16-year-old cat, Bobby, was the first to be affected, noticed Bobby was not himself after he began sleeping in the bath on 26 September.

He then fell down the stairs after losing control of his legs, which Louise put down to his age suddenly becoming a problem.

She said: “He was also extremely thirsty and sleepy. I took him to the vet on the Monday morning, who gave him two shots and some tablets and advised me to bring him back if he worsened. He deteriorated rapidly and severely and I had to have him put to sleep on 29 September.

“Bobby was a treasured family member. He had lots of character and was known and loved around the neighbourhood. He never ventured far from home, and although he was getting on a bit, he had no health issues and had plenty of life still in him.

“It’s been a massive blow to the family, my kids are devastated and our other three cats have been pining for him.”

Louise became suspicious when her neighbour’s cat fell ill with similar symptoms just three days later and also had to be put down.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward if they have any information.

Call 101 quoting crime numbers: 189984Y/16, 190163K/16, 191144J/16.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “The RSPCA is investigating after three cats had to be put to sleep in the Littleborough area of Rochdale suffering from suspected poisoning symptoms.

"We don't know whether this was a terrible accident or if they were poisoned deliberately, but would urge anyone who has noticed anything suspicious in the area to get in touch. Please call the RSPCA inspector appeal line 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for inspector Cath Byrnes.”

“Causing unnecessary suffering to a cat is a criminal offence and carries a maximum sentence of six months in prison and/or £20,000 fine if convicted.

“People should ensure they keep poisonous substances out of the reach of animals at all times.

“Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, seeming depressed or sleepy, appearing drunk or uncoordinated, seizures and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your cat has been poisoned you should take them to a vet immediately.

“If possible take a sample of what the cat has eaten/drunk or the container.

“More advice and information for pet owners is available at www.rspca.org.uk/poisoning"