LINDEN — Police are investigating a report that someone may be poisoning outside and stray cats in this Union County city.

A 28-year-old resident told police on Sunday that he found his cat Teddy lying dead across the street from his home.

The man told police that he believes someone in the neighborhood has been killing off cats by soaking cat food in antifreeze. He said he had previously found another cat that may have been poisoned the same way.

Animals are attracted to antifreeze because of its sweet taste.

According to WebMD, early signs of antifreeze poisoning can be seen within a half hour to 12 hours after ingestion. Symptoms include vomiting, wobbly moving, twitching, rapid eye movement, head tremors and increased urination and thirst.

Linden police say that killing stray cats is animal cruelty, a disorderly persons offense that could result in fines of $250 to $1,000 and six months in jail.

Also on New Jersey 101.5:

 

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-438-1015 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM