40 Cats Rescued From 'Horrific' Hoarder House By Westchester SPCA

WHITE PLAINS, NY — The SPCA of Westchester is leading a cat hoarding rescue in White Plains — where animals were found living in conditions described as "horrific."

The agency's Humane Law Enforcement Unit received an urgent call from a landlord after neighbors began complaining of a "deathly smell" coming from an apartment in their building. Officers have so far discovered nearly 40 terrified cats living in filth and garbage, according to the agency.

All of the cats were dehydrated, rescuers said. Most of the cats are sick and suffering with severe upper respiratory and eye infections, according to the group. One of the cats gave birth to a single tiny kitten who is clinging to life and was found on the cold floor, living in mounds of feces, according to the SPCA.

Food and water stations have been set up, but rescuers expect that it will take days to capture all of the animals.

"While it's hard to assess how many more cats could be living in the ceiling and furniture, our team will not stop until every single one is rescued," SPCA of Westchester Executive Director Shannon Laukhuf wrote in a letter to supporters. "All of these poor felines have been neglected for far too long and desperately need medical care, as well as time, to recover both physically and emotionally."

The SPCA Westchester is urgently seeking donations to support the cat's veterinary care and rehabilitation, which is anticipated to cost thousands.

The agency said donations will also support the SPCA Humane Law Enforcement Unit, which receives no government funding and depends solely on donations to protect Westchester's animals.

You can help the SPCA Westchester help these animals by donating here.