UPDATE: 58 cats removed in animal welfare case in Okemos
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Ingham County Animal Control authorities have removed 58 cats from a home in Okemos.
Ingham County Animal Control Director Holly Guild tells 6 News the agency was called to 4300 Aztec Way by officials from Adult Protection Services. Workers with APS were called by neighbors to check on the woman who lived at the property where the cats were discovered.
Officials said in the post that 58 cats had been removed and the resident had voluntarily surrendered the animals.
“They are currently undergoing medical evaluations,” officials said. “A number of the animals will require medical attention due to various illnesses and injuries.”
Guild tells 6 News some of the cats have upper respiratory infections. Many have dental concerns, with a few showing symptoms of bleeding from the mouth. She says the senior cats from the home appear to be in the most medically fragile state.
The resident, the officials report, is cooperating with an Animal Control investigation. The findings of the investigation will be referred to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office for consideration of potential criminal charges.
While the report will be referred to prosecutors, Guild says the hoarding did not appear to be an intention act.
“This appears to be a situation that got out of hand for a person who was not equipped for it,” she tells 6 News.
The agency is seeking donations of non-clumping cat litter and canned cat food. Donations can be dropped off at the Ingham County Animal Control Shelter at 600 Buhl St. in Mason.
One local pet business has already stepped up to help the facility. Preuss Pets’ manager Kirbay Preuss tells 6 News she delivered an estimated 200 pounds of kitty litter to the shelter late this afternoon.
Guild says several rescue agencies, including the Capital Area Humane Society, have reached out to offer support. Some of the cats may be transferred to CAHS, she says. Other rescue groups have made donations.
“It’s really a good feeling to have so many reaching out and asking what they can do to help,” she says. “It makes it a lot easier to deal with a situation like this.”
Foster homes are also being sought. For more information about fostering, visit the agency’s website.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
