PET owners are being warned about the dangers of pesticides and chemicals after two cats and a dog died from poisoning in Leominster.

The RSPCA is investigating after concerns were raised about the animals dying after ingesting an unknown substance in the Sandpits area.

Vets have confirmed that the animals had consumed something poisonous but it is not known whether this was accidental or deliberate.

The animal welfare charity is now urging people to keep pesticides and chemicals – including antifreeze – safely stored away and to be aware of the symptoms of poisoning.

RSPCA inspector Suzi Smith said: "Losing a much-loved family pet is heartbreaking and my thoughts are with the owners of the animals that have died.

"Sadly the person who has been in touch with us has experienced the deaths of two young cats in just one week and they also lost another cat earlier this year and another two last year to poisonings. The family is distraught and the children understandably are very upset."

She said the family have appealed on social media to try and find out if someone is poisoning cats and found other families in the area who have lost cats in the same way.

The charity has also been made aware of two dogs which were poisoned, including one that has tragically also died.

Inspector Smith said: “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. People should also check their car radiators for leaks too.

“If someone is doing this to prevent cats coming into their garden it is a very selfish and inhumane way to deal with the issue. There are many other methods that would allow gardens to remain cat free."

Pet-owners are being encouraged to keep an eye on the wellbeing of their animals and to seek veterinary treatment immediately if they show symptoms of poisoning.

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 vomiting, seeming depressed or sleepy, appearing drunk and uncoordinated, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

If you suspect an animal 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.

The RSPCA is urging anyone who has any information about what happened to call the appeal line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.