FEARS are growing as an increase in cat owners claim their beloved felines have been poisoned.

Volunteers from Worcester and District Cat Protection said they have received calls from pet owners worried their cats have been poisoned around the Westlands Estate.

In particular, cat owners have claimed the suspected poisoning has been happening around Hunters Way.

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One cat owner shared their fears on Facebook saying: "The amount of tabby cats who were missing in Droitwich over the last few months was shocking.

"Two of my cats were poisoned on Westlands."

Helen Parkes, Cats Protection’s area branch development manager for the West Midlands, said: “Our Worcester and District Branch has been contacted by concerned members of the public relating to possible poisoning of cats around the Westlands area of Droitwich, particularly around Hunters Way.

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“As the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, we are always distressed to hear of any potentially deliberate acts of cruelty towards cats and our thoughts are with any families whose cats may have been harmed."

How to tell if your cat has been poisoned?

Ms Parkes said there are many different reactions to poisoning because different solutions can affect cats.

Some signs a cat has been poisoned include salivation, inflammation of the skin, loss of coordination, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties and seizures. 

She added: "We urge anyone who suspects their cat has been poisoned to take them to a vet immediately."

What should I do if I suspect someone is poisoning cats in my area?

Cat Protection advises if you see a person acting suspiciously towards cats, report it to the police or the RSPCA, along with any descriptions and car number plates you may have noted.

Also, if there is a local Neighbourhood Watch in your area, make them aware and inform your neighbours that there may be suspicious activity taking place.

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Ms Parkes added: “We also recommend keeping cats in at night for their safety when there is usually a heightened risk of poisonings and road traffic accidents.

“As many poisonings can be accidental, we advise people to mop up any pools of potential poisons from the ground.

"At this time of year, while the weather is colder, we especially advise owners to keep antifreeze and its containers well out of their cat’s reach."