DANE COUNTY, Wis. — Dane County Humane Society took in 50 cats over the weekend and is asking for donations to help them heal.
The cats were brought to DCHS from a hoarding situation in Madison, Wis.
On Tuesday, the shelter took in 15 cats from the residence. DCHS said it initially planned to work with the owners and admit the remaining cats in smaller, “manageable groups.” However, things changed on Friday, when the city deemed the home was not habitable. Public Health Madison & Dane County’s Animal Services brought the 35 remaining cats to DCHS — bringing the total intake up to 50. DCHS said there were an additional 22 cats found dead at the residence.
Animal Services placed animal traps at the residence, in an effort to collect any additional cats on the property.
“These cats have been surrendered so DCHS can immediately begin to provide the care each cat needs,” Lisa Bernard, DCHS’s public relations coordinator said. “Unfortunately, receiving this large volume of cats all at once puts a strain on our resources and staff, so we’re reaching out to our community for help.”
DCHS said it needs to raise $7,500 to provide urgent medical care to all 50 cats. The shelter is an open admission shelter, which means it “accepts all animals regardless of age, health status or temperament.” DCHS said some of the cats have significant health issues, some have been under-socialized, while others are shy but sweet.
Medical care includes spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinations, dental care and other medical procedures. DCHS said it will also use funds for daily care, staff overtime and other necessary medical care.
“Cases like this are reminders of why spay and neuter procedures and vaccines are so important. Cats can multiply very quickly. Some can begin having kittens as young as four months old; they can have up to three litters per year, and each litter can have an average of four to six kittens,” Bernard said.
The shelter said the cats are not available for adoption yet, but once they are ready to find their fur-ever homes, DCHS will update its website. As of now, the shelter said it’s “focused on meeting these cats’ physical, mental and emotional needs.”
Donations can be mailed to, or dropped off at, DCHS’ main shelter at 5132 Voges Rd., Madison, Wis. Donations can also be made online, here. All checks should be made payable to DCHS and have “Heal” in the subject line.
DCHS has resources for pet owners in need of spay and neuter procedures or low-cost vet care, here.
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