HORROR has gripped a town in Catalunya after a suspected animal killer poisoned 12 cats to death and left four dogs fighting for their lives over the weekend.
Catalan police have launched a manhunt in Esterri d’Aneu, a mountain village around 250km from Barcelona, after a string of dead and critically ill animals were first discovered on Friday.
The cats and dogs are believed to have eaten pet food and chunks of chicken laced with poison, which investigators said were deliberately scattered around the village.
Police confirmed the contaminated food is now being analysed, though early reports suggest it contained a powerful rat poison.
Authorities have since cleaned the affected areas and urged residents to remain vigilant, calling on anyone who spots suspicious behaviour to contact police immediately.
The local council has also warned pet owners to keep animals indoors or under close supervision while the investigation continues.
Disturbingly, this is not the first suspected poisoning incident in the village.
In June 2025, a dog died after eating food contaminated with rat poison, sparking fears that the poisoning may have been intentional.
The case had caused alarm among residents and triggered an investigation into whether the animal had been deliberately targeted – fears that now appear chillingly justified.
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