Humane society: 30 cats rescued after severe neglect in Muncie home
MUNCIE, Ind. (WISH) — Thirty cats on Tuesday were in a temporary shelter after being rescued by the Humane Society of the United States and Muncie police.
The rescue crews described the find as the worst neglect case they’ve ever seen.
Kitty Block, president and chief executive officer of humane society, said the said the cats were kept inside for at least 10 years, based on conditions in the house. “You’re almost paralyzed when you first walk in; the smell, you can describe it so many times but it really doesn’t come across.”
Block said she was proud to have pulled 30 surviving felines from the home, but she believes there were more cats in the home that did not get rescued.
“It’s really dark in there, and the windows are all drawn, the shades are all drawn, so you’re not even sure you see a cat moving. Sometimes you can’t tell if it’s the filth on the floor or a kitty curled up,” Block said.
Block said Muncie police served a warrant Tuesday morning at the home. Someone was living there, but Block could not share any other details. Many of the cats were suffering from upper respiratory infections, skin conditions and other injuries.
Block said a familiar saying carries in this case: If you see something, say something.
“This situation is not a good situation. It’s not healthy. It’s a serious situation, and it’s not something people should take lightly if they learn or hear someone’s got a lot of animals in a house,” Block said.
All 30 of the cats were expected to live. Eventually, Block said, all of the cats will available for adoption.
Statement
“The dozens of cats rescued in Muncie, Indiana yesterday in an alleged severe neglect situation are beginning their road to recovery at the temporary shelter operated by the Humane Society of the United States.
“After receiving food, clean water and spending their first night in the temporary shelter, most of the cats greeted responders at the door of their kennels and appeared eager for affection. Some of the rescued cats are more reluctant and are settling into the privacy of their beds, while others are already using their scratching posts and lounging in their hammocks.
“‘Most of the cats are already perking up—they are amazing. One was snoring in his hammock this morning,’ said Morgan Rivera, a responder with the Humane Society of the United States who is managing the emergency shelter. ‘There are a few cats we are monitoring closely, but overall, the cats we rescued yesterday are looking good and seem curious and interested in interacting with us!’
“Today, the cats will receive thorough veterinary exams and begin personalized treatment for their skin conditions, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses and injuries.”
Kirsten Peek, manager of media relations, Humane Society of the United States, on Oct. 20, 2021