Cat owners warned after pet is 'deliberately' poisoned in Milton Keynes

They are convinced the poisoning was deliberate as there is no other reason for antifreeze to be used during warm weather.

Black and white Minstrel, who was seven, became seriously unwell at the beginning of last week after wandering about near her Old Stratford home.

Her owner Giselle Sylvester said: "She was in agony and last Thursday we had to have her put to sleep.

"Our vet told as that it was more than likely that someone poisoned her as it is unusual for people to use anti freeze in the spring and summer."

Giselle added: "We want the person or persons who did this to be made aware that they selfish act has left my daughter heart broken as well as my self and my partner as well as the rest of my family."

Cats are attracted to antifreeze because it tastes sweet. But it is extremely toxic to them.

The RSPCA gets hundreds of calls every year, about animals that are believed to have been either accidentally or deliberately poisoned.

Signs of poisoning may include vomiting, seizures, appearing drunk or sleepy, difficulty breathing and dehydration.

An RSPCA spokesman said: “If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned you must take it to a vet immediately. If possible and safe to do so, you should take a sample of what they have eaten or drunk, or the container.”