50+ Cats Found In Breeder's Home In South OC, Police Say

IRVINE, CA — An investigation was underway into the discovery of more than 50 cats — some apparently in poor health or malnourished — at an Irvine residence where a woman was allegedly breeding and selling them for up to $1,000, police said Wednesday.

Authorities went to the residence on Garnet Street on Tuesday afternoon "after receiving an anonymous tip," the Irvine Police Department reported.

"Animal Services officers found more than 50 kittens and cats inside the residence," police said in a statement. "The female resident was breeding Ragdoll and British Shorthair cats and selling them for up to $1,000.

"Some of the cats appeared malnourished, and others showed signs of poor health," police said. "Animal Services officers worked with the breeder, who released the cats to the care of the Irvine Animal Care Center."

Animal Care Center staff provided the animals with the necessary care and medical treatment, police said.

"We will provide an update on our social media, and (we) ask people not to call the Irvine Animal Care Center to inquire about them," police said. "As they become available for adoption, the cats will be posted to the Irvine Animal Care Center website at irvineanimals.org/adopt."

Animal Services officers were working with the Orange County District Attorney's Office in the investigation, police said. Anyone with information about the case was asked to contact Animal Services Supervisor Hope Darrow at Hdarrow@cityofirvine.org.