A SUSPECTED cat poisoning in Caerphilly has led to appeals for information by a Welsh animal welfare charity.

Four-year-old black and white cat, called Jack, was put down on Friday October 21 after veterinary advice confirmed he had been poisoned, leaving owner Nicola Penfold devastated.

Since then RSPCA Cymru has launched an appeal against the suspected criminal offence whilst also warning other owners of poisoning signals.

Ms Penfold: said: “I can honestly say I am completely devastated by what happened. A pet isn't just a pet, they become part of your family, and knowing he was taken away in such a painful way, knowing he suffered, has made it even worse.”

Jack came back to his Heol Y Ddol home on October 21 unwell, being sick several times and unable to walk or move.

He was immediately taken to a vets, where it was confirmed that he had been poisoned and was put to sleep.

RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: “Our thoughts are with Jack’s owner who must be extremely upset at this sad time.

“Jack doesn’t stray from home very far, so it is likely that this happened nearby. But what we don’t know if this was accidental or deliberate, so we are appealing for anyone with information to give us a call.”

The RSPCA have stated that potential signs of poisoning could include vomiting, seeming depressed/sleepy, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, seizures, difficulty breathing, increased thirst or urination.

Ms Daniels added: “Sadly many cats are victims of poisonings, and we urge anyone who suspects that their cat has been poisoned to take them to their vets straight away and for cat owners in the area to remain vigilant.”

Poisoning a cat deliberately is a criminal offence. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the maximum penalty for those found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a cat is up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000.

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018, where calls are treated in confidence.

You can help the RSPCA investigate cases like this by donating £3 through texting HELP to 78866.