Dozens of Cats Dumped at MS Shelter in Heatwave

Dozens of cats and kittens were discovered abandoned in cages outside the Southern Pines Animal Shelter in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Employees found the animals crammed together on Wednesday morning, June 10, with some having already escaped due to the cages' poor condition. The shelter reported that 12 adult cats and 21 kittens were taken in, many of whom were underage, underweight, and sickly, suffering from wounds and eye infections.

This unexpected influx of animals arrives during a challenging period for the shelter, as summer months typically see decreased donations and increased animal intake. Dani Snell, the development director, noted the financial strain, estimating the cost to care for each healthy animal at $500, with additional expenses for those with medical issues. As of Thursday afternoon, the shelter had raised approximately $9,500 but announced a shortage of soft food for kittens and puppies.

In response to the crisis, the shelter is implementing several initiatives to encourage adoptions and reduce the future population of homeless cats. From Friday, June 12, through Sunday, June 14, adoption fees for cats and kittens will be half-price. Additionally, the shelter is offering $25 spay or neuter procedures for cats throughout June to promote responsible pet ownership.