Two cats have died after ingesting antifreeze in a Fife town prompting an investigation by animal welfare officers.
The pets cats, Simba and Bluebell, died after the animals ingested the substance in the Forth Street area of Methil, Fife, on Sunday September 27.
Bluebell died before the owners reached the vet, and despite emergency treatment Simba became ill the following day and had to be put to sleep due to the extent of the harm caused.
It is not known if the cats were deliberately poisoned or if the pair came across the substance by accident, but an investigation is underway to establish what happened.
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information about the incident, and urged people to ensure they store antifreeze carefully.
Scottish SPCA inspector Stephanie Ross said: "Bluebell sadly passed away before making it to the vets. Simba was rushed to Vets Now in Kirkcaldy where she received emergency treatment. Sadly, the vet made the difficult decision to put her to sleep.
"The vet confirmed that antifreeze was the substance that had poisoned these poor cats.
"We would urge everyone to be vigilant with their disposal of antifreeze as this is a substance that is highly poisonous to cats and dogs and causes a very slow and painful death.
"It could be that Simba and Bluebell accessed a garage or area where antifreeze is not stored safely, so we are appealing for local residents to please check anywhere that they think might be a risk.
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"It is essential that everyone stores antifreeze out of reach of cats and other animals. There are strict guidelines for use and anyone who uses this substance to cause deliberate harm is committing an offence."
Anyone with information about the incident is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
