The cats were found after someone made a report about the parked car, police said in a press release. The owner recently became homeless and did not want to leave the cats behind, according to the Animal Humane Society (AHS).
According to the American Red Cross, an animal should be cooled down if the temperature reaches 105 degrees in order to avoid heat stroke.
“The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees,” the organization recommended.
Signs of heatstroke in cats include:
Increased pantingDrooling or SalivatingExcessive groomingRestlessness or PacingBright red tongueVomiting
Chisago County Sheriff’s officers requested the assistance of Humane Investigations agents with the AHS.
The owner gave agents permission to rescue all 47 animals and take them back to AHS, where they are being evaluated and cared for by veterinary and animal behavior staff.
“Once any medical and behavior issues have been addressed, the cats will be sterilized and made available for adoption through AHS or one of its rescue partners,” police said.
Local outlets reported that the owner surrendered an additional 14 cats to another shelter two weeks prior.
According to police, the owner was assessed at the scene by paramedics and provided with medical resources.
AHS reported that despite unsanitary conditions and the extreme temperatures, most of the 47 cats are in “relatively good health.” The cats ranged in age from less than one year to 12 years old, AHS said.
“Today, 47 cats are finally experiencing what it’s like to have their own space in which to sleep, play, and eat,” AHS said. “This is just the beginning of their second chance but it’s 47 second chances we can promise because we can count on animal lovers like you—yesterday, today, and every day thereafter.”
Newsweek reached out to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office and the Animal Humane Society for comment.
In New Mexico, more than 50 dogs and puppies were removed from crowded pens located outside. The dogs were found with no access to water and in freezing temperatures, police said.
In New Hampshire, police discovered more than 70 cats living in a man’s home after he accidentally shot himself. All the cats were rescued and due to dangerous ammonia levels, the home was condemned.
