Animal officials rescue 46 sick cats, kittens from northern Iowa home

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Animal rescue officials in Iowa rescued 46 sick cats and kittens from a northern Iowa home on Wednesday.

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According to a Facebook post by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, its Mobile Rescue Team received a call from a family struggling to provide for the felines.

Team members said that when they entered the home, the scent of ammonia was so strong that it burned their eyes and throats, KCRG-TV reported. Cats were found roaming through the home, which was described as being in “filthy” condition.

“Even being in the home for a few minutes was difficult,” the Animal Rescue League wrote on Facebook. “We couldn’t imagine what it was like for these cats and kittens -- let alone the people -- living there day in and day out, especially when many clearly needed medical care.”

Officials said many of the cats were thin and were suffering from eye infections. The felines also had upper respiratory infections, KCRG reported.

The cats were also suffering from fleas and ear mites, according to the television station.

“Thankfully someone advocated for the cats and the people in the home,” the Rescue League wrote. “Or this situation could have been much worse. Human services is also involved to help the people in the home.”

Donations to help these animals can be made online or by mail at 5452 N.E. 22nd St., Des Moines, IA 50313; RE: 46 cats.

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