Police in Orange County said they helped rescue more than 50 cats from inside a single home and they suspect the owner was breeding them to make a quick buck.
The cats were found in a neighborhood inside a gated community on Garnet Street in Irvine.
Police said they were called there Tuesday after receiving an anonymous tip. When they arrived, they found more than 50 cats, some of which were malnourished and dirty.
In Irvine, it is illegal to keep more than three cats in a home.
As to why the person or people living there had so many cats, police said they believe the individual was breeding them.
“They’re very unique. They’re British Shorthairs and Ragdolls, and they’re selling up to $1,000 apiece. So these definitely do appear to be a unique breed of cat that she was selling,” said Kyle Oldoerp, a police spokesman.
The cats are now being cared for at Irvine Animal Care Center.
Police advised the public not to contact the center about adopting the cats, saying they will likely go up for adoption at some point, and when that happens, information will be posted on the city’s website.
As for whether charges will be filed against the person or people living at the house, police said they will provide their findings to the district attorney’s office, which will decide whether charges are warranted.