RSPCA Victoria Inspectors have rescued 48 cats from an alleged illegal breeder at a residential property in the City of Whitehorse.
Inspectors from RSPCA Victoria issued multiple Notices to Comply earlier this year to seek veterinary care for the cats and to improve the animals' unsanitary living conditions.
Despite initial improvements, Inspectors found conditions at the property had deteriorated on a follow up visit, with animals found living in confined, unhygienic conditions and exhibiting signs of illness.
RSPCA Victoria Major Investigations Team Leader Shannon Walsh said insufficient veterinary care and poor living conditions enabled the spread of disease.
"The cats were mostly high-value breeds kept in confined and extremely unhygienic conditions," Team Leader Walsh said.
"Despite making initial improvements to these animals' overall health and living conditions, they were recently found suffering from illnesses and living in their own filth with insufficient veterinary care.
"Pet owners must provide a clean and sanitary environment for their animals, including fresh food and water, as well as the removal of waste, and provide necessary veterinary treatment.
"If you are looking for a new pet, please ensure you research prospective breeders and verify they are conducting a safe operation with good animal welfare practices in place."
RSPCA Victoria's expert team is now providing the necessary medical treatment and care for these cats and kittens, and estimates this will cost more than $160,000[1] .
