WITNESSES are being sought after two cats were found dead as a result of poisoning in the same street in Kilbirnie.

The animals were the victims of anti-freeze poisoning which results in them suffering from a great deal of pain.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “A resident of Ladysmith Road in Kilbirnie recently contacted us to report that they had tragically lost two cats to suspected anti-freeze poisoning in one day.

“We do not know whether these poisonings are the result of a deliberate act or an accidental spillage so we are appealing to local residents to contact us if they have any information in relation to these concerning incidents.

"Animals which have consumed anti-freeze will display a number of symptoms including vomiting, lethargy and in the latter stages, head-shaking and coma, which ultimately results in renal failure and death.

“Owners whose cats appear unwell should seek immediate veterinary treatment as early detection offers the best chance of survival.

"Unfortunately, many cats die a slow, horrible and painful death as a result of poisoning.” Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.

Mr James Walker, who is a vet in Kilbirnie said: “We had the first cat brought into us on the morning on March 17. It was sufffering fits, it felt like it had enlarged kidneys and I thought at this stage it was a possible poisoning.

"We kept the cat in and it seemed to get a bit better after it had been on a drip and had been fed using a special feeder but it unfortunately died on March 20.” The second cat was also brought to Mr Walker, he added: “The second cat was brought in on the morning of the 20th but it was already in a coma, it was too far gone and we decided it was best to put it down.

"We then carried out a post-mortem on both cats and they were both victim to the same thing, anti-freeze poisoning.” It is, as of yet, unclear whether or not the cats were poisoned intentionally or by accident but Mr Walker concluded by saying: “These are the only cases I have had in this area but it is possible to get cats to take anti-freeze. It’s hard to say whether or not this was done on purpose, the cats could easily have taken it by mistake in a garage or somewhere similar.”