String of cat deaths due to anti-freeze poisoning in Aberdeenshire village
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information, they don't yet know if the poisoning was deliberate.
Last updated 21st Jul 2021
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information following the deaths of five cats in the last six months, after they ingested antifreeze in the village of Drumlithie near Stonehaven, Kincardineshire.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted to the most recent incident last week where a cat named Smudge sadly passed away and the vet determined he had ingested a large amount of antifreeze.
Scottish SPCA inspector, Karen Cooper, said, “We have received reports to our helpline that Smudge was the fifth cat in the last six months to die from antifreeze poisoning in the Drumlithie area.
“The vet confirmed that antifreeze was the substance that had poisoned these poor cats.
“We would urge everyone to be vigilant with their disposal of antifreeze as this is a substance that is highly poisonous to cats and dogs and causes a very slow and painful death.
“It could be that these cats accessed a garage or area where antifreeze is not stored safely, so we are appealing for local residents to please check anywhere that they think might be a risk.
“It is essential that everyone stores antifreeze out of reach of cats and other animals. There are strict guidelines for use and anyone who uses this substance to cause deliberate harm is committing an offence.”
Anyone with information on this incident is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.