MPs debate control of antifreeze
More than 20 cases of antifreeze poisoning have been reported in one village.
MPs are today debating the control of antifreeze products after a spate of cat poisonings in Nottinghamshire.
Mark Spencer, MP for Sherwood, has raised the issue in parliament where an adjournment debate is taking place at Westminster Hall today.
The RSPCA is investigating more than 20 cases of suspected antifreeze poisoning in just one Nottinghamshire village.
Sadly, this situation is not isolated. In July this year, five cats were poisoned on the same street in Padiham, Lancashire.
Antifreeze is sweet tasting and commonly contains ethylene glycol. Ingesting even small amounts can lead to fatal kidney failure, particularly in cats.
Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, seizures, difficulty breathing, increased thirst and urination.
Earlier this year a Yorkshire cat charity joined international calls to add a bitterant to antifreeze products. A petition on Change.org urging the same has so far received more than 22,500 signatures.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
