'The animals could die': Koala thieves could face animal cruelty charges

The thief or thieves who took three koala joeys from a Brisbane wildlife carer's home could be charged with animal cruelty.

Pascal, Fynn and Spencer, all aged 14 months, were taken from an enclosure at a home in Ormiston between 9pm on Thursday and 6am on Friday.

RSPCA Queensland spokesman Michael Beatty said there was "no way" the person or people who took them didn't know they were jeopardising the joeys' health.

"There has been blanket publicity about their need for medication and supplementary feeding," he said in a statement on Monday.

"These animals will die if they're not returned.

"Whoever took them must realise that."

Mr Beatty said those responsible could face charges of animal cruelty, which carry a maximum penalty of three years' jail and a $220,000 fine.

The joeys' carer, Samantha Longman, yesterday told 9NEWS she felt “physically sick” when she discovered the cages of the animals were empty.

“I think my heart stopped. I felt sick, just devastated,” Ms Longman, who has cared for rescue koalas for 14 years, said.

Whoever took the koala joeys has been urged to hand them into a veterinary surgery, the RSPCA or a local police station.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.