On Valentine’s Day, Cat Depot received a request for assistance from The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). HSUS was called to help local law enforcement in Crystal Springs, Mississippi with a severe hoarding case. 

Over 170 cats were found in deplorable conditions and required immediate rescuing. Upon HSUS’s arrival, they found many of the cats crammed into rusty cages in filthy conditions, while a few were running loose or hiding behind furniture and debris.  

Cat Depot’s Emergency Response Team (CDERT) immediately jumped into action readying our Rescue Rig, needed supplies, and organizing our response efforts. Before the sun rose on Saturday, Cat Depot’s Emergency Responders began the 753-mile journey to Mississippi. After a sleepless night, our staff arrived and met with HSUS staff to determine which cats would be traveling back to Sarasota.

In an effort to find placement for as many cats as possible, Cat Depot also reached out to our statewide rescue partners. Leon County Humane Society and Humane Society of Naples answered the call and stepped in to assist. On the way home, our staff transported 12 additional cats on behalf of our rescue partners. 

We are fortunate to provide assistance during times of need, but we cannot do it without your support. All 18 cats arriving from Mississippi have upper respiratory infections or conjunctivitis, in addition to varying degrees of dental disease and/or medical issues that will need to be addressed by our veterinary staff.

Your support today would provide these kitties, and others like them, with the best chance of a bright and healthy future. Will you please consider making a gift today in support of these cats and our lifesaving mission?

Thank you for saving lives! 

Above Photography Credit: Meredith Lee/For The HSUS