115 Cats Rescued From Hoarding Situation; Several Ready For Adoption

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Animal Humane Society rescued 115 cats from filthy conditions in a small mobile home Tuesday. Images show the cats in dirty cages with matted fur and old food.

A tip led the Humane Society to the woods of rural Todd County Tuesday where a mother and daughter were keeping the cats. Humane Society officials are describing it as a hoarding situation.

"It would literally be a toxic environment for extended periods of time," said Dr. Graham Brayshaw, director of animal services for the Animal Humane Society.

The cats were all taken out of the home at the same time. The Animal Humane Society said the owners were relatively cooperative.

"We sent out two vehicles and four shelter workers along with three humane agents that were on scene," Brayshaw said.

The unconventional family of cats ranging from 6 months to 15 years old is healing. Since they were rescued, the cats have received medical attention, as well as surgeries to be neutered or spayed.

"The most significant things we saw were the respiratory infections, the hair loss, the ear mites," Brayshaw said.

Brayshaw said the cats are in relatively good condition considering the conditions from which they were rescued.

"They actually had something I've never seen before. Each of these 115 cats had a little note card with their name, their age, their personality, any known health concerns," Brayshaw said.

The Animal Humane Society said they are hoping three-fourths of the cats will be available for adoption. Some will be placed in their barn cat adoption program. If you would like to donate to the Animal Humane Society, you can do so here.

The Animal Humane Society says many of the cats will be available for adoption Friday at the organization's Golden Valley location. However, many of the animals will need more care and attention from professionals.