A rescue mission led by Cat Haven in Baton Rouge saved over 50 cats from deplorable conditions at an animal shelter in Rayne, Louisiana.
On May 23, rescuers from Cat Haven embarked on a journey of over two hours to Rayne, where they found cats and kittens living in distressing conditions amidst temperatures exceeding 90 degrees.
Amber Herrell, Director of Development at Cat Haven, described the heartbreaking scene encountered by the rescue team. “Kittens were in kennels and there were kittens in an ice chest we had to corral them, it was sad. There were flies everywhere,” she recounted.
Many of the kittens were found locked in kennels without access to food or water, and all of them were suffering from infections, particularly in their eyes. Without intervention, rescuers feared that the kittens would not have survived much longer.
“Just health, it’s amazing. You can’t even tell they have eyes because the eyes are completely shut,” remarked Holly Carey, Executive Director of Cat Haven.
The residence where the cats were found had been recently abandoned following the eviction of two renters, according to rescuers. The cats were reportedly surviving by scavenging dead rabbits in the yard.
Upon returning to Baton Rouge, the rescued cats were immediately provided with medical attention at the shelter. They underwent a lime sulfur dip solution treatment to eradicate ringworms and received eye ointment to address infections. To prevent the spread of infection, the shelter will isolate the rescued cats from the rest of the population.
While many of the rescued cats still require additional medical care, the most important aspect is that they are now safe and receiving the necessary attention.
“I want to get them as well as quickly as possible,” emphasized Carey.
Cat Haven is seeking donations of money, food, and cat supplies to support the care of these rescued cats. Additionally, the shelter is looking for fosters to provide temporary homes for the cats in need. For those interested in contributing or fostering, Cat Haven’s website or contact number (225-636-2680) provides further information.
