Nearly 100 Cats Rescued from Dangerous Conditions in Western Colorado

Humane Colorado calls for emergency donations to support ongoing medical and behavioral care.

Denver, Colo., (July 14, 2025) – On Saturday June 21, Humane Colorado responded to a large-scale animal neglect case in western Colorado involving more than 250 pet animals including nearly 100 Bengal and Siamese mix cats that are now being cared for at Humane Colorado. Working in partnership with the Bureau of Animal Protection, National Mill Dog Rescue, and Teller County Regional Animal Shelter, the cats and more than 100 dogs were safely removed from the extremely hazardous conditions. But they now urgently need community support.

Humane Colorado Animal Protection field agents, law enforcement, and shelter staff braved 95-degree heat to remove the cats from cramped, chicken-coop style enclosures, many infested with black widow spiders. The cats were transported to the Leslie A. Malone Center for urgent care.

“These cats were found in unimaginable conditions many terrified, in poor health, unsocialized, and caring for their kittens in dangerous heat,” said Mary Sarah Fairweather, Vice President of Sheltering at Humane Colorado. “Now they’re safe, but the costs are overwhelming, and the journey to recovery will be long. We can only do work like this with the public’s help.”

The cats are now in Humane Colorado’s care where they are receiving comfortable shelter, nutritious food, critical medical treatment and behavioral support, including care for ringworm, upper respiratory infections, eye conditions, and other contagious illnesses. Among the cats brought to Humane Colorado are kittens and nursing moms.

“We are incredibly grateful for the collaboration and compassion of our partners and community during this critical time,” said Katie Parker, Chief Operating Officer. “We are asking the community to please step up and help us continue to be able to do lifesaving work like this by donating in support of animals, like these cats, who desperately need us.”

At Humane Colorado, the average cost of caring for one animal’s shelter journey is more than $800, but large-scale impounds like this place immense strain on the organization and staff. Animals rescued from cases such as this often have complex medical needs and behavioral challenges, requiring far more resources, time and specialized care. Community support is crucial to help us meet this urgent demand and ensure these animals get the care they desperately need and deserve.

Humane Colorado is asking for the community’s financial support to help ensure they have the resources they need to care for animals when they need it most. Animals from neglect situations require emergency veterinary treatment and exceptional behavioral support. Those willing to contribute financially to ensure this care is available can donate at Humane Colorado is asking for the community’s financial support to help ensure they have the resources they need to care for animals when they need it most. Animals from neglect situations require emergency veterinary treatment and exceptional behavioral support. Those willing to contribute financially to ensure this care is available can donate at https://humanecolorado.org/cat-emergency-fund/.

About Humane Colorado

Humane Colorado, formerly the Dumb Friends League, is a 115-year-old, independent nonprofit working to end pet homelessness and animal suffering across Colorado. Each year, the organization provides shelter, veterinary care, and critical services to more than 40,000 homelessness pets and horses. Humane Colorado’s mission extends beyond shelter walls – focusing on life-saving services, connecting families with homeless animals, and addressing barriers to pet ownership.

The organization operates independently and is not affiliated with any national organization. Learn more at humanecolorado.org and follow along on social media.