A CALLOUS cat killer has struck for the second time this year, claiming the lives of another four beloved family pets.

A total of seven felines have now been killed in Hatfield, after eating food laced with antifreeze.

The latest quartet poisoned belong to the Hemmings family, from Primrose Close.

The Welwyn Hatfield Times reported in April how four of their moggies had been poisoned, with just two surviving.

A cat belonging to their neighbours, the Twigg family, was also killed.

Now after the latest attack, the Hemmings said they were being “forced” to consider giving up their pets.

Father-of-four Alan told the WHT how they helplessly watched female Dee Dee and boys Beetlejuice, Fang and Henry suffer in agony and did not wish to see any more going through the same.

He said: “Whether we are going to keep our cats, well it’s something we’ve got to discuss as a family. It’s going to be a hard decision.

“Me and Dee Dee were particularly close and seeing her wail and cry in agony is terrible when you can’t do anything for her.

“I think if the person who is doing this saw it he might stop. Some people don’t realise that animals have feelings like us as well.”

So far the family have shelled out �400 in vets’ bills and RSPCA officers performed a free autopsy and confirmed that anti-freeze was detected in the cats.

Tearful wife Ruby said: “Village Vets have been fantastic, which really helps in such a tough time.

“Something has to be done, they have to be stopped.”

Police are also investigating.

Pc Glenn Cook from the Hatfield neighbourhood team said: “This is very distressing for the victims, who are losing their cherished pets.

“We’re doing all we to find out who is responsible.

“It isn’t ideal but in the meantime I would urge people to try to keep their cats indoors.”

If you think you know who is involved or have seen suspicious behaviour in the area, contact 0845 33 00 222.

For more on this story see this week’s Welwyn Hatfield Times.