NOCO Humane has recently taken in 108 cats from three suspected hoarding situations during August and September. The influx of animals has significantly strained the shelter's resources. Seven of the cats were euthanized due to severe medical conditions.
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The humane society, serving Larimer and Weld counties, first received 42 cats from a suspected hoarding case in Weld County in early August. As of September 15, law enforcement was still investigating that case. Following this, on August 12, 46 cats were transported from a Severance home after the owner passed away.
A third group of 20 cats was surrendered by a community member to NOCO Humane's Evans campus on September 11 and 12. According to Scott Wendelberger, the organization's Marketing and Communication Manager, many of the cats have already been adopted, leaving five available as of September 16. Some of the remaining cats are awaiting spay or neuter surgeries and other veterinary care.
CEO Cynthia Setel described the intake of 108 cats over a five-week period as "an extraordinary undertaking" that demands quick adaptation of shelter space, veterinary resources, staffing, and supplies. She emphasized the importance of being ready to respond in moments like these.
NOCO Humane also reminds community members with an increasing number of animals that they should seek assistance promptly. The Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act in Colorado requires anyone sheltering more than 15 dogs or cats to have a pet animal care facility license.
This report has been updated for accuracy regarding the status of the cats' origins, confirming they all came from suspected hoarding situations.