I am Keerthana, a resident of Chennai, and I’m heartbroken. My beloved cat recently passed away due to suspected poisoning. This isn’t an isolated incident — at least five other cats in my area have died under similar circumstances.

The likely cause? Easily available rat poison that is being misused or carelessly kept in places where pets and strays can access it.

Rat poison doesn’t just harm rodents — it causes immense suffering to cats, dogs, birds, and other animals. It leads to slow, painful deaths. What’s even more devastating is that vets are often unable to save them once the poison starts affecting their organs. We rushed our cat to multiple veterinary hospitals, gave fluids and medications, but nothing worked. She suffered seizures, salivation, and organ failure — just like the other cats who died before her.

The absence of regulation and awareness is costing innocent lives.

I’m requesting the Ministry of Environment & Forests, PETA India, and AWBI (Animal Welfare Board of India) to:

• Ban or strictly regulate the sale of rodenticides, especially in residential areas

• Promote safer, non-lethal alternatives for pest control

• Mandate clear labeling with warnings and usage guidelines

• Launch awareness campaigns on the safe handling and disposal of such substances

• If banning is not currently possible, at least ensure that the poison is made less harmful to non-target animals, or restrict it to licensed buyers only

We need action — before more animals suffer silently. Let’s protect our voiceless companions. Sign and share this petition to help make a change.