Cat deaths and disappearances under investigation in South Lanarkshire
An investigation is underway following the deaths of five cats and two having gone missing in the same area in South Lanarkshire.
The incidents have all happened in Biggar, around the Elphinstone Crescent area, over the last three months, with the latest death on Monday.
Three of the cats that died were involved in road traffic accidents and the other two deaths were determined inconclusive after a post-mortem.
It is not known if the cats were poisoned by an unknown substance or were targeted by someone who wanted to harm them.
The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after a concerned resident contacted the charity on June 17.
Inspector Dawn Robertson said: "This has been an incredibly upsetting and stressful time for the owners of the cats and we would like to get to the bottom of what has happened.
"It is very unusual to have five cats pass away and two be missing over such a short space of time.
"The most recent deceased cat was discovered only this morning."
She added: "It might be that there is a substance somewhere local that is causing the cats to be poisoned or become confused which has caused them to wander on to the road.
"We would urge everyone to be vigilant with their disposal of any toxic substance, such as anti-freeze, that can be poisonous to cats and other animals.
"It is essential that everyone stores substances out of reach.
"Alternatively, and we hope this is not the case, this could be a deliberate attempt to harm or kill these cats.
"Anyone using any method to cause injury on purpose is committing an offence and is punishable by law."
Four of the cats that died lived in Elphinstone Crescent and the other was a regular visitor to the area.
One of the missing cats is from the street and the other is from elsewhere in the town.
The Scottish SPCA urged anyone with any information to contact its confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
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