A WOMAN whose cat was poisoned by antifreeze is warning other pet owners to be on guard.

Beverley Duce, from Shildon, County Durham, believes her 14-month-old tomcat, Jack, ingested antifreeze while roaming the area around her family’s home in Auckland Wynd, last Tuesday.

The animal was taken to the vets after returning home unwell, but died on Saturday morning.

Mrs Duce says Jack’s death has devastated the family, particularly her daughter, Hannah Wilson, and stepdaughter Renee Duce, who are both 16.

She believes Jack may have been poisoned deliberately and has reported the incident to the police and RSPCA.

“I am trying to raise awareness of how dangerous antifreeze is to animals to stop this happening to anyone else’s pet,”

Mrs Duce said.

“It blocks their kidneys with crystals, causing the organs to fail. He was such a lovely cat, very friendly and loving. We are so upset by the whole thing.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman said the charity was concerned following a spate of similar antifreeze poisonings across the country, and urged people to be extra vigilant when using the substance near animals.

“The taste of antifreeze is very attractive to cats and ingesting just the smallest amount can lead to kidney failure and death,” she said.

“Signs of antifreeze poisoning can include vomiting, sleepiness, lack of coordination, seizures, breathing difficulties, increased thirst, and increased urination.

“We would like to remind the public that the poisoning of a cat can constitute a criminal offence, and the maximum penalty is up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of £20,000.”