CAT owners are being urged to be cautious after new figures have revealed a jump in poisoning incidents across certain areas in the past year.

RSPCA Cymru have confirmed that more than 38 animals were involved in being poisoned throughout Gwent in 2016.

The latest figures depict a rise in Caerphilly borough while their has been a slight drop in nearby Torfaen. Areas hit by the rise include Risca, Caerphilly town, Newbridge and Rogerstone.

Cat owner Hannah Debnam, of Risca, whose pet died of poisoning in the summer, said: “I still have three cats and when it happened I thought it was a one off, and you sort of hope it is. But seeing the latest Caerphilly figures makes me more certain what happened to Poppy was deliberate.

“I know its a growing problem across the whole of the UK from speaking to people and seeing things online, in Bristol their was an issue where people out anti-freeze in puddles in a park popular with dog walkers, its horrendous.”

Thirty incidents were reported last year in the Caerphilly borough, up from nine in 2015. Torfaen’s total has gone down from ten to eight.

In 2015 Newport saw 13 animals suffering from being poisoned whilst Monmouthshire’s figure totalled six.

Lisa Richards of the RSPCA, said: “We have been very concerned by a series of recent suspected poisonings in South East Wales.

“Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by any such tragic event. If anyone believes their cat has been poisoned, it is vital they remain calm, contact their vet immediately and follow their advice.”

She added: “Where safe to do so, a person should also look to take a sample of whatever appears to have poisoned their pet to a veterinary practice.”

For more information contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018.