Investigation launched after spate of cat poisoning
Over 40 cats have been killed by anti-freeze in Boston.
An investigation has been launched following the deaths of over 40 cats in Lincolnshire.
The police and the RSPCA are investigating after reports that at least 44 cats have died from anti-freeze poisoning, most of them in Woad Farm Road in Boston.
Speaking to the BBC, local vet Michael Kettle said: "This must be malicious because of the numbers, and the type of poison that is being used.
"The animals are coming in with extreme lethargy, shock and then they go into acute kidney failure and there is not much we can do for them, death occurs two days later.
Pet owners living in the area say that they are devastated by the deaths and are too scared to let their cats go outdoors.
Emma Hibbert, whose family has lost two cats, told the BBC: "It is hugely devastating having to tell your children that you have had to put the beloved family pet down.
"I have bi-polar disorder so these cats were a big part of my life but we just can't face any more pain.
"It's had an impact on the street as a whole, people won't let there cats out nobody will buy a new cat because they are scared they are giving it a death sentence."
The RSPCA says that the deaths are unlikely to be accidental due to the time of year. They are policing the area with Lincolnshire police officers and are asking residents to remain vigilant.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
