More than 100 cats rescued from home in Crosby

Authorities in Crow Wing County are investigating a case of animal cruelty after more than 100 cats were found in ‘unsafe living conditions.’ On Thursday, April 11, authorities in Crosby conducted an administrative search warrant of a residence following complaints about animal cruelty, neglect, hoarding and unsafe living conditions. according to a Facebook post from the Crosby Police Department.

Once officers arrived, they located 101 cats inside the home. The animals were removed with the help from the Minnesota Federated Humane Society and brought to the Tri-County Humane Society in St. Cloud.

Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP spoke with the executive director of the animal shelter.

“I’ve worked with the Tri-County Humane Society for 20 years, and our shelter has never seen anything like this,” said Marit Ortega. “We’re glad to have them here where they have access to fresh food, water and shelter.”

Ortega said some of the cats were underweight and a number of them had upper respiratory infections. All of the cats had fleas. Staff also found microchips from previous owners.

The Humane Society has been fielding a flood of calls with interest to adopt since the incident happened.

“We’re going to be finding them loving homes if they’re not reunited with their previous owners,” Ortega said.

Humane Society staff said they already reunited two cats with their families.

If you’re missing a cat from the Crosby area within the past 10 years, contact the Tri-County Humane Society at www.tricountyhumanesociety.org or 320-252-0896.

The Humane Society is also accepting litter and cat food donations.

The Crow Wing County Social Services, Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Department, Crosby Building Inspector, Lakes Area Wildlife Control Officer, as well as the Minnesota Federated Humane Society assisted in the rescue.

Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP contributed to this article.