TACOMA, Wash. — An estimated 100 cats have been confiscated from a "biohazardous" hoarding situation at a Federal Way apartment, packing an already full Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society (HSTPC) to the brim.
The property where the cats were seized from is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom, second-floor apartment unit, which was found with "inches of excrement covering the floors," according to a release from HSTPC. The cats did not have access to food or water and were "infested with fleas."
The cats' physical condition is being assessed by shelter staff, and they will each receive a wellness exam, parasite treatment, vaccinations, essential nutrients and spay/neuter surgeries before being made available for adoption.
CEO for HSTPC Leslie Dalzell called the situation a "massive undertaking" and strain on the organization's resources.
“In addition to the estimated 100 cats coming in as they are safely captured by our animal control partners, we are already caring for nearly 700 animals in our facility and in foster homes," Dalzell said. "We've had to resort to using temporary kennels to house cats.”
Anyone interested in supporting HSTPC at this time are encouraged to donate money, supplies, or apply to foster an animal A same-day foster event will be held on Monday, Oct. 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the shelter at 2608 Center Street in Tacoma. Cat food and litter will be provided. Those unable to attend can sign up to become foster volunteers on HSTPC's website.