Dozens of neglected cats found in "extraordinarily dirty" Groningen attic

De Landelijke Inspectiedienst Dierenwelzijn (LID), the National Animal Welfare Inspection Service, found dozens of cats in an attic in the Westerkwartier in Groningen living in their own urine and feces. The ammonia smell was too much for the inspector at the location, which resulted in the fire brigade putting on face masks to inspect the area, it was reported on Tuesday. The LID called it an extraordinarily dirty attic.

Eventually, nine kits and four adult cats were grabbed and taken away. These animals had a contagious intestinal infection, for which they are being treated.

"The other shy animals—probably several dozen—had quickly hidden behind the knee walls and under floorboards and were elusive," said the LID. The woman who lives in the building has been ordered to open all the windows and doors permanently so that the cats can leave the attic themselves or go to another place in the home. There will be another checkup soon.

The woman also has an aviary with 12 budgerigars and 12 sheepdogs. The birds were immediately given a better home at another location, and a period was imposed in which the dogs should have improved care. The woman also bears the costs of, among other things, the transport and medical care of the cats taken into custody. The Public Prosecution Service will look into the case.