Earlier this month, on a frigid December day, DCHS received nearly two dozen cats from a shocking hoarding situation in Dane County. It took multiple Animal Services Officers several trips to bring the first 16 cats to us, and they filled our intake area with wide eyes and talkative meows, many of them pressed against the front of their carriers in search of a chin scratch or gentle pet from our staff. Over the next few days, even more cats from the same home arrived, leaving us with a total of 23 cats removed from a single 300-square-foot studio apartment.
We immediately got to work. Large cases like this take coordination, compassion, and resources, and DCHS was ready to meet these kitties’ needs for food, shelter, and in some cases space to heal.
Once settled at DCHS, the cats began to show us who they really are—and what a charming group they turned out to be! Most of these sweet kitties are remarkably friendly. Quite a few have already been flagged as “door darters,” because the moment their kennel door opens, they’re right there hoping for treats, eager for pets, and thrilled to soak up attention. It’s clear these cats enjoy human companionship and are ready to find new families!
A few of the cats have medical issues that need treatment, which our veterinary team is actively addressing. Thanks to prompt care and close monitoring, those cats are on the path to feeling better. Starting this week, many of the healthy cats are available for adoption! Their next chapter—one filled with stability, love, and plenty of lap time—is just beginning.
This group of 23 cats is a powerful reminder of what our community makes possible. When Public Health Madison Dane County Animal Services Officers need a partner to handle a large, urgent case, DCHS stands ready. When animals need safety, medical care, and a second chance, DCHS is here. But we can’t do it alone.
Every intake like this requires resources—medical supplies, food, housing, and ongoing care to get animals ready for their fresh start. Your support ensures that when the next call comes, we can say “yes” again. A gift to DCHS directly fuels lifesaving work like this, helping local animals in crisis and strengthening the safety net for our entire community.
