A WARNING has been issued after three cats belonging to the same family died after apparently being poisoned.

The RSPCA is appealing for information about what happened to the pets who were all found to have high levels of toxins in their blood.

The first two cats to be taken ill were Ollie and Maisie who lived with a family in Highwoods, Colchester, had to be put down to prevent further suffering while the third cat Jessica died at home.

Gazette:

Collapsed - Maisie

Maisie was found collapsed in June and rushed to the vets but was put to sleep despite their best efforts.

Gazette:

Symptoms - Ollie 

Almost exactly a month later Ollie had the same symptoms.

Again, there was nothing vets could do to save him.

Jessica began displaying unusual behaviour last month and was not eating.

Vets discovered ulcers in her mouth which can be a sign of renal failure.

Blood tests showed high levels of toxins and she died a fortnight later despite ongoing treatment.

The cause of the toxins have not been determined but experts believe it would have been caused by some sort of poison.

Anti-freeze - which is sweet smelling to cats but highly dangerous for them - has been ruled out.

RSPCA inspector Jessica Dayes is leading the probe into what happened to the tragic trio.

She said:“I am heartbroken for the owner of Maisie, Ollie and Jessica.

“To lose three beloved pets in such a short period of time is just devastating.

“While at this stage we do not know if these incidents were deliberate or accidental they are deeply concerning and I would appeal to anyone who may have any information as to what has happened to these cats to get in touch.

“We would urge all cat-owners to keep a close eye on their pets and their behaviour and if they suspect they have been injured or poisoned they should seek immediate veterinary attention.

“As a precaution we would also ask people who are using substances to make sure they are extremely careful in their storage of it and how they dispose of it.

“If anyone has any information they should call 0300 123 8018.”

Poisoning signs include vomiting, seeming depressed, sleepy, or uncoordinated, seizures and difficulty breathing.