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] .

This particular investigation remains ongoing, and no further comment is available at this stage.

Reports from the community are vital to ensure animal cruelty and neglect are investigated.

Anyone with concerns for the welfare of an animal, aware of illegal breeding, or an unusually high numbers of animals at one location is encouraged to contact RSPCA Victoria on 03 9224 2222 or submit a report at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ immediately.

It’s an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTAA) to confine an animal in a manner that causes or is likely to cause unreasonable pain and suffering or fail to provide appropriate or veterinary attention to a sick or injured animal. Anyone found guilty of such an act can face fines of up to $49,397.50 or 12 months imprisonment.

The RSPCA Smart Kitten and Cat Buyer’s Guide is a free online resource available for all prospective cat and kitten buyers.

[1] Based on the average length of stay and average cost of care per day by animal type.