HAWS preps more than 60 cats, seized from hoarding situation, for adoption; get one for less than $15!

WAUKESHA -- Officials at the Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County continue to care for more than 60 cats removed from a home in the Town of Vernon in Waukesha County -- and they have received help from several other humane societies in caring for the cats -- rescued from a hoarding situation.

HAWS officials believe this case originated from just a single mother cat and her first litter of kittens, all of whom were never spayed or neutered.

The cats were rescued on October 3rd. It's unclear whether anyone actually lived in the home where the cats were found.

"A lot of feces. When I took a step, it was squishy. The carpet was squishy. The smell of urine -- you could smell it outside the door. At some point, you had to walk outside and take a breath. It was that bad," Jessica Brach with HAWS said.

HAWS was alerted by a person who alerted them to that strong smell of urine coming from the home.

"There`s no reason for things to get this bad," Lynn Olenik, HAWS executive director said.

 

HAWS is working to rehabilitate and adopt out the more than 60 cats.

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“We cannot thank enough our friends at Elmbrook Humane Society, Washington County Humane Society and Dane County Humane Society for taking many of our cats that were already up for adoption,” said HAWS Executive Director Lynn Olenik. “We are also grateful to Mukwonago Animal Hospital. They are not only helping with spays/neuters and health care, but also taking many of the cats for adoption through their facility. This teamwork truly illustrates the idea of ‘Building a No-Kill Community.'"

HAWS has also been buoyed by the generosity of the public and the many donations brought to the shelter for the cats.

HAWS still needs your help:

While many of the cats are dealing with upper respiratory infections, HAWS officials said most seem healthy and friendly, and are being placed up for adoption as they become ready.

Those interested in adopting are encouraged to come to HAWS for the “Columbus Day” special running throughout the month of October, where all cats six months and older are just $14.92.

Barn homes may also be needed for those cats unable to live indoors as house pets. Those with barns or similar housing should call HAWS at 262-542-8851 for information.

HAWS is open 7 days a week for viewing and adoptions.

CLICK HERE to browse cats available for adoption at HAWS.