SPCA: Cats seized from filthy home in Prunedale

Seven sick cats were rescued from a home on Lakeview Drive in Prunedale Thursday, and SPCA officials believe there could be more cats still there.

According to the SPCA for Monterey County, they received a tip from a concerned citizen about a suspected hoarding situation.

After an investigation, SPCA officials got a search warrant and with the help of Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies, entered the home and took the cats. One resident was transported by ambulance to the hospital for unrelated medical problems.

The home was cluttered with feces, urine, boxes, old newspapers and garbage, SPCA officials said, and the smell of ammonia from the urine was overwhelming and posed a serious health hazard.

Adult Protective Services, Monterey County Code Enforcement, and North County Fire Department helped respond, along with representatives of the county Building and Planning Department and the Department of Environmental Health.

SPCA officials said the owner has officially surrendered the animals to the organization. All seven cats and kittens were extremely sick and will be undergoing medical treatment.

SPCA humane investigators will be submitting the case to the District Attorney’s Office for review.