Stray felines are held sometimes up to three weeks in cages of fewer than 11 square feet of space, defined as inhumane by the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, according to the Team Shelter USA assessment released this week by the county.
During the group’s Nov. 26-30 assessment of the shelter, 100 percent of the cats were affected by respiratory infections, including one that quickly died.
The study also noted that cats were not provided with toys, hiding options or soft bedding, but when provided with enrichment, cats were noticeably more content.
The consultants also noted that staff could not move cats from the stray hold to lobby or adoption area without walking through a dog kennel.
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