AN animal welfare charity has issued a warning to cat owners after two Barrhead moggies were reported to have been poisoned to death with antifreeze.

The felines are said to have died within weeks of each other in the Crossmill area of town, with the most recent death taking place on Monday.

Bosses at the Giffnock branch of the Cats Protection charity say the pet's owner has been left "absolutely devastated."

The first incident is reported to have taken place near the Dovecothall roundabout earlier this month.

Karen Minnery, branch co-ordinator for Cats Protection, are now warning owners in Barrhead that allowing their cats outside could be extremely dangerous for them.

said: "This is the second time this has happened in a matter of weeks - the owner is absolutely devastated.

"This is not something that we normally see but it is becoming more common now.

"We are advising that cats be kept inside in the area as it may not be safe for them.

"We don't know who is doing this but it is becoming quite worrying that this has happened again, and it looks as though it could be deliberate."

Despite their intelligence, cats can occasionally ingest antifreeze due to its supposed sweet taste.

The substance can cause blocking of the kidneys and may pets may not show signs of damage for a day or two after eating it.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “The poisoning of domestic animals is a huge issue and we deal with a large number of complaints regarding poisonings however they are incredibly difficult to solve due to the nature of the crime.

“Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most common causes of cat poisoning. The liquid is usually colourless and odourless, but it has a sweet taste that appeals to dogs in particular, but cats will also ingest it.

“By the time symptoms occur, such as vomiting, lethargy and, in the latter stages, head shaking and coma, it is normally too late to treat. Renal failure is most often the cause of death, with irreparable damage to the kidneys.

“Pet owners in the area should be vigilant when letting their cats out of the house, and should supervise their animals where possible.”