TWO pet cats have been poisoned in the same street within weeks of each other.

The RSPCA has issued a warning to owners after two incidents in Sandpiper Close, Shoebury.

Owner Rowena Race returned home to find her cat Pepsi collapsed at home.

She was rushed to the vets but sadly died later that day.

Ms Race said: “Poor Pepsi was breathing really erratically and kept collapsing when I realised something was wrong. It broke my heart to see her like that.

“We rushed her to the vets but she didn’t make it. I just don’t want anyone else to go through the same. It was on October 6.”

RSPCA inspector Marie Hammerton said: “It is a very worrying situation as another cat on the same street came home with the same symptoms within weeks of each other.

“The vets have confirmed these poor cats that were previously healthy were poisoned.”

“Losing a much-loved family pet like this is so upsetting for the owners and to hear there have been other incidents in this road as well is worrying.”

Anyone with information can call the RSPCA’s appeal line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.

Ms Hammerton added: “At this stage we do not know if these were accidental incidents or deliberate but in the meantime we would ask for everyone in the area to keep an eye out and check where they keep their pesticides and chemicals - including antifreeze - and make sure it is secure and out of the way of cats.

“People should check their car radiators for leaks too.

“We would also like to ask everyone in the area to keep an eye on their cats’ wellbeing and if they are showing symptoms of poisoning get them veterinary treatment immediately.”

Signs of poisoning can be seen anything from 30 minutes after a cat has ingested the chemical, though it can be two or three days before signs of kidney failure are seen.

The signs of poisoning can include one, or several of the following: Vomiting, seeming depressed or sleepy, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

If you suspect that your cat has been poisoned you should take it to a vet immediately.

If possible, you should take a sample of what the cat has eaten/drunk, or the container.