In Merced County, California, it had been a shocking and heartbreaking afternoon, when deputies discovered nearly 130 Persian cats crammed inside a hot, abandoned U-Haul. The cats had been left in intolerable heated conditions at a Taco Bell parking lot in Santa Nella.
In a horrific hoarding case, 134 Persian cats—ranging from 1-week-old kittens to seniors…
By the time police arrived, over 20 were already dead. The survivors were emaciated, covered in parasites, and many were battling ringworm.
The hoarder has been jailed, and the District Attorney has vowed to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law.
Rescue partners at New Beginnings For Merced County Animals helped nurse many of the cats back to health. Nearly two dozen of the cats had been transported to Washington state for critical medical care. Other cats were released to local rescues and received the emergency veterinary attention they needed.
Wings of Rescue stepped up to help and flew many of the cats from Merced to Washington to start new lives with rescue partners at PAWS – Progressive Animal Welfare Society, The NOAH Center, and SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. in Washington.
At this time, 32 Persian cats remain at the Mercer County Animal Shelter, where they are receiving daily medical treatment, nourishment, and compassionate attention from the staff and veterinary team. Many arrived in need of extensive treatment, and rescuers are encouraged to see their health steadily improving.
Everyone involved in this huge rescue endeavor are extremely grateful for the many rescue groups who stepped in to support this effort. The cats who were in the most critical condition have been placed with trusted rescue partners, where they are now safe and receiving the specialized treatment and resources they deserve. Thanks to this collaboration, every cat rescued is on the path to a brighter future.
In the coming weeks, five of the Persians at the shelter will be ready for adoption, with more expected to follow as their recovery continues. Because some will require ongoing medical support, adopters who can provide both the love and the extra care are needed.
Please follow the Merced County Sheriff Animal Services Bureau on Facebook and other social media platforms. Together, we can ensure these cats find the safe, loving homes they deserve.
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
Ready for snow?
Oh my!
