Woman Arrested After Over 100 Cats Found in Sweltering Van

A woman in California was detained on numerous cruelty charges after deputies uncovered more than 100 cats confined in a U-Haul parked in a Taco Bell lot. Authorities discovered 134 cats, of which 28 had already died, in the vehicle during the late afternoon.

Upon arrival, deputies saw at least 20 distressed cats through the van’s window. Animal control personnel responded promptly, but no food or water was found inside the vehicle. The cats, ranging from one week to 8 years old, were all seized and transported to the county animal shelter, then cared for by a local veterinary center. Once they are medically stabilized, the cats will be made available for adoption.

Authorities stated that once the cats are healthy, they will be listed on the county shelter’s website and social media platforms for adoption.

The owner, a 69-year-old woman from Long Beach, was taken into custody on 93 counts of animal cruelty and placed in the Merced County Jail.

Officials warned the public about the dangers of leaving animals unattended in vehicles during hot weather, as temperatures can escalate rapidly and cause heatstroke, dehydration, or death.

The sheriff’s office advised pet owners to ensure their animals have a cool, shaded place, with access to plenty of water and food when traveling.