New Westminster Animal Control Services is urging residents to be vigilant in protecting their cats after a disturbing report about possible animal abuse.

A resident contacted the city today to report an incident that occurred in the Brow of the Hill neighbourhood on Friday July 2.

"Her cat came running home, crying. It was saturated - they believe it was paint thinner," said Nancy Millar, animal services officer. "His front legs and head were dry. It was like someone had picked him up and dipped him."

The resident had just noticed a neighbour's cat was sitting on its patio. The cat was also soaking wet, but its owners weren't home at the time.

"When she picked up her cat, it reeked of what they believe was paint thinner," Millar said. "She was able to bathe it."

The other cat, however, was stuck on the patio and the liquid is believed to have been absorbed into its body. It is now being cared for by a veterinarian and isn't doing well.

The cats belong to people living in the 1000 block of Queens Avenue.

"It is a little disturbing," Millar said of the allegations. "Cats get into things. There is some weirdness to this - the tops of their bodies were dry."

A file has been opened with New Westminster Police Service. Anyone with information is asked to call 604-525-5411.

"We want people to be vigilant and keep an eye on their pets," Millar said. "If anyone knows of anything, please contact New Westminster police."