More than 150 cats and kittens rescued from a Brick Township home are almost ready to be put up for adoption.
Of the 154 cats that were rescued, the Northern Ocean County Animal Shelter has 80 of them.
But it is a tough time of year for the shelters as it is considered “kitten season” and there is overcrowding in the shelters.
“It’s been very crazy. We've never seen it this busy. We had two massive hoarding situations back-to-back. Which we have never had before,” says Jackie Strawder, of the Ocean County Animal Shelter.
The cats – and three dogs – were removed from a home on Mantoloking Road in Brick earlier this month. They were nursed back to good health by staff and volunteers.
“They definitely will appreciate a good home… after what they all went through, they deserve a great home,” says Mary Alano, of the shelter.
More than 180 dogs were taken in by the Ocean County shelters in December after another Brick Township hoarding incident. All were adopted within three months. And now these cats need love.
“It is kitten season, and we see a lot of litters come into the shelter. We are looking for responsible pet owners who are seriously interested in adopting a cat to come on out, check out our pets. We have wonderful cats of all colors, shapes and sizes. You name it, we have it. Maybe they will even pick you,” says Brian Lippai, of the Ocean County Health Department.
The first cats should be ready for adoption by the end of this week or early next week. Those interested in adopting should check the Ocean County Health Department's webpage and social media accounts for more information.
The two people renting the home where the cats were found are facing several charges, including failure to provide care and licensing for the animals.