Charges Pending After 25 Cats Rescued From Hoarding Situation

Animal welfare officials rescued 25 cats and kittens from a hoarding situation Tuesday morning in Bristol Township.

The Bucks County SPCA worked with Bristol Township’s animal control officer and a county co-responder working with township police to coordinate the rescue, the nonprofit told LevittownNow.com.

The cats’ owner agreed to voluntary surrender the animals after discussions with the Bucks County SPCA Police’s chief humane officer.

Officials noted the voluntary surrender allows for a faster transition to medical treatment and adoption compared to a legal seizure via warrant.

A response team transported the felines to the SPCA’s Lahaska Shelter.

Upon showing up at the home, a staff veterinarian began prioritizing the most critical cases, officials said.

According to the SPCA, many of the animals are suffering from severe upper respiratory infections and ulcerated wounds caused by fur saturated in urine and feces.

“Our priority is to help every animal heal and recover,” said Linda Reider, executive director of the Bucks County SPCA. “Once healthy enough, each one will be spayed or neutered and placed for adoption so that they can find loving homes.”

Despite the cooperation from the owner, animal cruelty charges are currently pending, officials said.

While the animals receive medical care, the former owner has been connected with county agencies to address their personal well-being, officials said.

The SPCA, in a statement, described the situation as distressing but expressed relief that the intervention occurred before the conditions deteriorated further.

“Animal hoarding is a complex problem and is not uncommon in Bucks County,” the organization stated, urging those struggling with an unmanageable number of pets to seek assistance.

The SPCA is directing community members to their Animal Relief Fund to help cover the medical costs for the rescued felines.

Residents who suspect animal neglect or feel overwhelmed by pet care can contact the cruelty tip line at 844-SPCA-TIP (844-772-2847) or reportcruelty@buckscountyspca.org. General inquiries can be directed to 215-794-7425 or www.buckscountyspca.org