100+ Cats Found Inside Small Upstate New York Apartment

Police have discovered more than 100 cats living inside an apartment in Catskill, NY, where conditions were described as "extremely unsanitary and unsafe."

If you're a cat lover, you probably can't imagine anything worse than seeing dozens of cats living in an unsafe environment without the care they need. Now imagine walking into a small apartment in Upstate New York and discovering more than 100 cats living inside. That's exactly what police say they found during a recent investigation in Greene County, and the discovery led to a massive animal rescue operation.

Apartment Found in Deplorable Conditions in Catskill, NY

According to the Catskill Police Department, officers received information on Thursday, October 22, about an apartment at 68 North Street in Catskill that was reportedly being maintained in "deplorable conditions." The apartment was reportedly occupied by multiple residents, along with an unknown number of cats.

Police launched an investigation and eventually obtained a search warrant for the property.

100 Cats Found in Apartment in Catskill, NY

More Than 100 Cats Found Inside Apartment

When officers entered the apartment, they discovered extremely unsanitary and unsafe living conditions for both the people living there and the animals. What started as an investigation into the condition of the apartment quickly turned into a large-scale animal rescue operation.

Police said more than 100 cats were recovered from the residence, requiring assistance from multiple animal welfare organizations, shelters, and rescue groups.

The cats were transported for veterinary examinations and treatment. Following their evaluations, the animals will be distributed among various shelters and rescue organizations, where they will receive temporary housing and continued care.

Arrested

Two People Arrested Following Investigation

Following the investigation, two Catskill residents were arrested and charged with multiple counts under New York's Agriculture and Markets Law related to allegedly overdriving, torturing or injuring animals and failing to provide proper sustenance.

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The individuals charged were identified as 38-year-old Kayla Hackett and 42-year-old Barry Mower, both of Catskill. Both were issued appearance tickets and released pending future court proceedings.

Due to the severe condition of the apartment, local authorities subsequently condemned the residence.

Multiple Animal Rescue Organizations Step In

With more than 100 cats needing to be removed and cared for, the Catskill Police Department received assistance from several organizations, including the Columbia-Greene Humane Society, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Albany County Animal Cruelty Task Force, Schenectady County SPCA, Animal Kind and Hyer Rescue.

The department thanked the agencies, shelters, rescue groups and volunteers who helped safely remove the cats and arrange for their care.

Police are also reminding residents to report suspected animal neglect, mistreatment or abuse to local law enforcement or an animal welfare organization. Early intervention can help prevent situations like this from getting worse and ensure animals receive the care they need.