RESIDENTS say up to 12 cats may have been killed in their street in the past seven months by a mystery poison.

The latest victims returned to their home in Weaverdale, Shoebury, extremely unwell, one shortly after the other.

Terry, a two year-old ginger Tom, and Narla, a 10 month-old white female, were both disorientated, off their food, and vomiting.

They were taken to the vets, and found to have been suffering from some kind of poison, though it is not known what.

The symptoms were so severe that the vets said there was nothing they could do to help them so they had to be put to down to prevent further suffering.

The RSPCA has launched an appeal for information after Rianne Sharpe, the cats’ owner, said up to ten other cats have died in the past seven months from similar symptoms.

She said: “We are all extremely concerned that so many cats appear to be dying in this street and don’t know why.

“So many neighbours have told me about their cats dying - at least 10 I would say.

“It was awful seeing Terry and Narla as ill as they were - they were clearly in so much pain.

“We don’t know what kind of poison it is that is killing them but I am extremely concerned that it might have been deliberate as it has happened so much. It is just so sad.”

RSPCA chief inspector Samantha Garvey said: “It is extremely concerning that so many cats have been reported as dying from poison in the same street in the past few months, and we urge anyone with any information about this to call us, in strictest confidence.

“We do not know for sure if these were accidental incidents or deliberate but in the meantime we would ask for everyone in the area to 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.

“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.

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

Cat’s suffering from suspected poisoning should be taken to a vet immediately with a sample of what they have eaten, of possible.

Anyone with information should contact RSPCA’s appeal line in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018.