A spate of cat killings and mutilations are being investigated by police after one pet was found hanging from a tree in Twickenham.

The attacks are reported to have taken place in and around Haggard Road, where the dead cat was found hanged from a tree near garages, with a noose around its neck, at 6.55am on Friday morning (November 21).

Police believe the animals are being lured with food before being attacked, with another domestic cat reported to have been killed and mutilated nearby.

A police spokesman said: "The cat’s owner has been informed.

"No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing."

Animal charity Hounslow Animal Welfare Society (Haws) warned cat owners in the Haggard Road area to remain vigilant.

The charity posted on its Facebook page: "We had the most distressing call today from one of our adopters who had a visit from the police to tell her that her cat had been deliberately hanged and there have been others.

"We have informed all the local vets so they can warn their clients."

The charity urged pet owners to take care when letting their cats outside and asked people to warn any friends who live near Haggard Road of the danger.

It added: "Despite her distress she called us so we could get the message out to as many people as possible so they don't have to receive such terrible news.

"We can only hope these vile monsters are caught very soon."

A number of people have expressed concerns on Facebook about cats going missing in the area.

Samantha Anderson-Pearce posted: "My cat went missing 6 weeks ago, in Whitton, sadly we hadn't chipped him. Thought or hoped maybe he been taken in. He was 18mths old. Feel sick in our stomachs."

Jackie Williams wrote: "So many cats seem to go missing in st margarets. Are there any more details of where the other cats were from? We live near Haggard rd. I feel for the families of these poor cats x".

The RSPCA said it had not received any reports but asked people to call 0300 123 8018 with information.

No arrests have been made and the investigation continues.

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