Nearly three weeks ago, 29 cats were found living in a filthy Greene County home. Now, those cats are being treated and cared for by Teddy Bear Care, a Carmichaels-based animal rescue group.

Humane officer Robin Leighty described the conditions of the house as, “One big huge litter box. I mean, that’s the only way I can explain it.”

The cats which suffered from numerous ailments including fleas as well as other infections are slowly recovering.

“We’re still working on some of them … but they are coming along. They are doing better,” Leighty said.

TBC volunteers are working around the clock to make sure these cats receive the care they’ve been lacking. They keep them clean, fed and most importantly, loved.

“TBC, period, is about love,” Donna Roberts, co-founder of Teddy Bear Care, said.

According to their mission, TBC is dedicated to providing affection, security and love to all animals in need. Despite being short staffed, the volunteers continue to come back day after day because of their love for the animals.

“They have unconditional love so no matter what background or what you do as long as you show up and show them love they love you back,” Kim Hazuga, TBC volunteer, said.

Once the cats are healthy, they will be in need of a new home. 

As for the homeowner, Leighty said it’s a “classic hoarding case,” and she will be filing charges. Because formal charges had not been filed at the time of publication, the name is withheld.

“There’s going to be at least one count per each cat. So, that’s 29 counts going against her and with the dead one that we found deceased you know I’m going after aggravated neglect,” Leighty said. “What I truly truly want is for her to never own or have another animal at all.”

Until the case is closed, the cats will remain caged. Despite not being able to place them in homes just yet, Leighty said they are still looking for people interested in adopting one of the cats. 

In addition to housing the cats, Leighty said they are also in need of donations and volunteers. Anyone looking to help, should reach out to Teddy Bear Care.

“All I can do is beg for people to help us out. That’s all I can do,” she said.