Residents of a Kidlington neighbourhood have raised concerns about raw meat that has been placed outside, reportedly for cats, which is causing illness among felines and drawing vermin to the area.
Householders in the Grovelands district report that the meat is being deposited nightly, resulting in health issues for cats that consume it and attracting rats and foxes to the neighbourhood.
Calls have been made for whoever is responsible to cease the practice immediately, with warnings that an animal could die if the behaviour continues.
One resident, who chose to remain unnamed, explained that cats in the area are being given both fresh and decomposing raw meat.
The animals are experiencing severe vomiting and illness, with some requiring veterinary treatment.
Neighbours have attempted to deter the individual responsible by displaying posters in the Grovelands area, though this has proven ineffective.
Some residents who shared their concerns on social media were subjected to ridicule, though the situation is considered far from humorous.
The practice poses serious risks to the cats involved.
While the majority of local residents are supportive of efforts to address the issue, identification of the culprit remains elusive, and householders have been asked to monitor the situation closely and watch for any suspicious activity.
The unnamed resident confirmed that the matter has been reported to Environmental Health officials, though without knowing the identity of the person responsible, the scope of any potential enforcement action remains uncertain.
The problem extends beyond cat owners, as residents without pets have also expressed frustration over the increase in foxes and rats in the area.
The meat left outside is frequently either decomposing or uncooked, and the behaviour occurs every night without exception.
Cats are falling ill on a nightly basis, and veterinary expenses can quickly become substantial.
Kidlington East councillor Ian Middleton described the circumstances as a source of significant worry.
As someone who owns cats himself, he stated that he would not wish any feline companion to consume such food, citing both the dangers associated with tainted meat and the possibility that whoever is leaving it out may have ulterior motives.
Cases have occurred previously where individuals have carelessly placed poisoned meat as bait for wildlife considered problematic by some, such as foxes.
He cautioned that other creatures could also be endangered, including domestic animals like dogs alongside carrion birds and birds of prey.
The local wildlife population is already under considerable strain following recent extreme heat events.
Those responsible may believe they are assisting the animals, but he urged them to halt the practice and recognise how their actions could inadvertently cause greater harm.