25 Cats, Kittens Rescued From 'Extreme' Hoarding Conditions: Bucks Co. SPCA

BRISTOL TOWNSHIP, PA — The Bucks County SPCA has rescued 25 cats and kittens living in "extreme" hoarding conditions.

The agency — working with the township's Animal Control Officer and Bucks County Human Services Co-Responder — had its Chief Humane Officer communicating with the cats’ owner on Tuesday to secure their voluntary surrender to the BCSPCA.

Instead of seizure with a warrant, a voluntary surrender ensures the fastest track to treatment and adoption for animals rescued from cruelty and neglect, the SPCA said.

Animal cruelty charges are pending.

The BCSPCA initiated a response team to safely transport the cats and kittens to its Lahaska shelter.

The Bucks SPCA's staff veterinarian and team examined the sickest animals first to assess each one’s condition and begin treatment.

Many of the cats are suffering from severe upper
respiratory infections and ulcerated wounds resulting from fur soaked in feces and urine. Exams for all the cats continued into the afternoon.

“Our priority is to help every animal heal and recover,” said Linda Reider, BCSPCA Executive Director. “Once healthy enough, each one will be spayed or neutered and placed for adoption so that they can find loving homes.”

The SPCA said the owner is now connected with various county agencies offering assistance to ensure their own well-being.

"Animal hoarding is a complex problem and is not uncommon in Bucks County," the SPCA said. "We encourage anyone who is struggling to care for an unmanageable number of animals to reach out to us for help."

Residents can report animal cruelty concerns to the BCSPCA tip line at 844-SPCA-TIP (844-772-2847) or reportcruelty@buckscountyspca.org.

Visit our website at buckscountyspca.org or call 215-794-7425 to learn about low-cost cat spay/neuter services and other assistance for animals and pet owners.

The community can help by donating to BCSPCA’s Animal Relief Fund, which is used to provide care and medical treatment for animals like these cats who have been rescued from cruelty and neglect.

(Bucks County SPCA)