The BC SPCA has intervened in a disturbing case of animal hoarding at a property in northern British Columbia.

The non-profit animal welfare organization seized 120 cats and three small dogs from the property in Fort St. James.

Unfortunately, another 130 dead cats were found in freezers on the property as well.

Photo Credit: BC SPCA

“Any time we are dealing with situations of animal hoarding it is devastating for both the animals and the people,” said Eileen Drever from the BC SPCA. “We are just so glad that we were called in in time to rescue the remaining animals.”

The BC SPCA noted that many of the animals were emaciated and suffering from upper respiratory infections, extreme flea infestations, urine scald, eye infections, dental issues, ear mites and wounds.

They were being kept in “filthy and unsafe” conditions in a trailer.

Drevner said that the majority of cats were hiding in kitchen cupboards, under the fridge and under furniture in the sparsely-decorated trailer.

Photo Credit: BC SPCA

“The entryway and hallway to the bedrooms were covered in layers of feces and the entire trailer was very hot and filled with an overwhelming ammonia smell due to the build-up of urine,” she explained. 

“The feces and urine were so thick that boot covers were pulled off within a couple of steps due to the stickiness.”

Drevner added that no water was present for any of the animals, and while some dry cat food had been scattered on the floor, it was contaminated with urine and feces.

“Many of the cats appeared very hungry and came up to our officer upon initial entry and immediately began eating the food that was offered,” she said.

Many of the seized cats were having trouble breathing, while the three chihuahuas are being treated for dental disease, hair loss and grooming issues.

Photo Credit: BC SPCA

The seized animals are being cared for at BC SPCA shelters and will continue to receive ongoing veterinary treatment, but the costs add up after a massive intake like this one.

“Our animal protection officers have been responding to many large-scale cases like this in recent months, which puts a lot of pressure on our resources as our shelters are already very busy,” noted Drever. 

“The BC SPCA is grateful for anyone who can donate to help off-set the cost of caring for these animals.”

If you want to contribute to the care of these animals, click this link.