19 Cats, Kittens Found Abandoned On Florida's Interstate 75

TAMPA, FL — Nearly 20 cats and kittens will have a second chance at a forever home after volunteers from a Florida animal rescue organization found them abandoned on the side of Interstate 75 near Tampa.

The St. Francis Society Animal Rescue said the organization received multiple reports of abandoned cats near an I-75 exit last week, according to a Facebook post. When a volunteer went to investigate, what she found was "overwhelming and heartbreaking," the organization said.

"Nearly 20 abandoned cats and kittens were essentially deserted on a small island of shrubbery surrounded by cars travelling [sic] 80mph," the Facebook post read. "Sadly, one already laid deceased on the side of the highway."

According to the organization, the cats were cold and hungry. Some needed medical attention.

With help from Hillsborough County Animal Control and the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, 19 cats were rescued from the side of the interstate.

St. Francis Society Animal Rescue staff said anyone with information about who possibly abandoned the cats should contact the Humane Society of Tampa at 813-876-7138 or Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center at 813-744-5660.