Has cat poisoner struck again?
AFOURTH cat has died - and another is said to be very poorly - as police continue to hunt a suspected antifreeze poisoner.
A warning was issued by police in Littleborough last week after three cats were found dead on neighbouring streets.
Now officers have confirmed a fourth death, with a fifth cat receiving veterinary care.
Police believe they have all suffered antifreeze poisoning.
The two latest cats were discovered in an area surrounding Stott Street, Holland Street and Mary Street - mirroring the locations of the first three deaths.
And police revealed they are also aware of a number of other cats reported missing.
The situation however is said to be ‘unique’ to the village and there have been no other reports in any other area of Rochdale.
Police in Littleborough appealed for anyone with information to come forward in confidence - and reminded all cat owners to remain vigilant as an investigation continues.
A force spokesman said: “Sadly there have been two more cats with possible antifreeze poisoning in the Stott Street, Holland Street and Mary Street areas of Littleborough.
“One cat sadly died and the other is very poorly
“We are aware that some cats are missing and we sincerely hope they turn up safe and well
“As far as we are aware these incidents have remained unique to Littleborough, however we urge people to come forward and let us know if the same is happening elsewhere.
“Once again we are appealing to Littleborough residents and beyond to please let us know if they have heard or seen anything suspicious as soon as possible.”
Following confirmation of the deaths of the first three pets last week, GMP said the cause of death in each case was confirmed by a vet as antifreeze poisoning following postmortem examinations.
Two of those deaths happened on the same day on Stott Street.
The RSPCA said it was also investigating after being alerted by the police.
A spokesman for the charity said investigators couldn’t determine whether the poisonings were the result of a terrible accident or deliberate acts.
A spokesman said: “If you suspect your cat has been poisoned you should take them to a vet immediately.
“If possible take a sample of what the cat has eaten/drunk or the container.” More advice and information for pet owners is available at rspca. org.uk/poisoning.