A FAMILY has been left "devastated" after being told their two cats were poisoned earlier this week.

Louise Barlow, of Hillcrest Avenue, Leigh rushed her cats Fluffy and Elsa to a vets practice after they became ill suddenly.

The mum-of-three was told Fluffy was so ill she had to be put to sleep straight away.

Elsa was taken home but her condition deteriorated and she died hours later.

Louise, 35, said: "It's devastated us all. The vet said they were poisoned and Fluffy was so bad they put her to sleep then.

"Me and my children are traumatised by it and burying them both together was heartbreaking.

"It's horrible as we have had them since they were kittens.

"I would love to find out who has done this to my innocent cats. How can anyone hurt them?

Leigh Journal:

Elsa

Leigh Journal:

Rhys, nine, and Elsa

Louise is warning other pet owners to be vigilant.

She added: "All pet owners need to be aware of disorientation, lack of movement from their animals' back legs and frothing at the mouth.

"They must also watch out for their eyes appearing huge like they're so afraid that they don't know where they are.

"I don't want any other cat or dog owner to go through this."

Louise has reported the incident to Cats Protection and the organisation is raising awareness to alert other pet owners.