One was arrested and 50 cats were confiscated from Avoca’s home for neglect

AVOCA, NY (WETM) – One person was arrested and 50 cats were rescued from a mobile home in Steuben County after reports the animals had been abandoned since March.

According to the Finger Lakes SPCA, 50 cats, including 44 adult cats and six newborn kittens, were rescued from a trailer in Avoca and were said to have been living in squalid conditions.

The FLSPCA said it cares for the cats, but some have multiple health problems serious enough that humane euthanasia was deemed necessary.

The press release said the problems were likely due to a combination of inbreeding and the toxic atmosphere in which the cats lived. The FLSPCA added that this was a case that required a lot of staff attention and time.

The cats were reportedly multiplying rapidly and overgrowing the habitat, which officials said could have been prevented by spaying or neutering the first few cats.

The FLSPCA said the cats removed from the shelter were not socialized because no one had lived at the shelter for some time, and that they would best be adopted as working cats or barn cats. Six of the cats have already been relocated to new environments. If you or someone you know is looking for a cat for the work environment in a barn, stable, workshop, warehouse, etc., please call the FLSPCA at 607-776-3039.

The FLSPCA is asking for any community support in the form of monetary donations, Purina Cat Chow (blue bag), or any other item on their wish list.

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office confirmed with 18 News that a Bath man was arrested in connection with the case and charged with 17 counts of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 26, Section 353: driving over, torturing and injuring of animals; Failure to provide adequate means of subsistence.

Police said the person was processed and released with an appearance ticket to return to Avoca Municipal Court.