WASHINGTON — Almost three dozen cats were found in a single residence in Northeast D.C. on Thursday.
When Humane Law Enforcement Officer Timothy Moyer investigated, he found the residence was a possible hoarding situation, with 35 cats in various states of injury and neglect.
The owner of the cats surrendered them to Moyer before leaving the residence.
Chris Schindler, vice president of field services for Humane Law Enforcement, said it’s a violation of D.C. code to have more than seven animals without a special permit. The organization called this investigation a “potential hoarding case” in a news release.
“Providing care, food and medical necessities can sometimes be overwhelming for pet owners, but with 35 cats, it can be extremely difficult in a residential situation,” Schindler said in a statement.
All 35 cats were transferred to the Humane Rescue Alliance. They are currently undergoing veterinary examinations and treatment for any conditions they have.
They will be made available for adoption after the organization can clear them medically and behaviorally.
The case is currently under investigation as a possible Humane Law Enforcement matter.
