Cats in squalid conditions rescued in Reading
They were found following reports from neighbours
Two people in Reading have been banned from keeping animals for 10 years after over 70 cats were found living in dire conditions at their residence from 2024 to 2025.
The investigation by Reading’s Environmental Protection team and animal warden commenced in April 2024 due to complaints from neighbours about foul smells and flea infestations emanating from a rented house.
Upon inspection, officers discovered 27 cats suffering from a severe flea infestation with no access to the outdoors.
The floors of the property were covered in cat faeces and urine, the smell and fleas causing issues for adjacent homes.
Despite efforts to help clean up the property, the occupants failed to make necessary improvements, resulting in the suffering of the cats.
Authorities obtained a court warrant under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, enabling the removal of the animals to prevent further harm.
All 27 cats were handed over to the RSPCA that day for rehoming.
In April 2025, the occupants were sentenced at Reading Crown Court for neglect and cruelty, receiving a six-year ban from owning cats and dogs, yet less than a month later in May, cats were spotted at the property again.
This violation of the ban led to another warrant being issued, resulting in the rescue of 43 more cats and kittens. Unfortunately, two kittens were found dead, and a further eight were put down due to poor health.
Following guilty pleas, the individuals faced sentencing at Reading Crown Court on 13th February 2026, receiving a 12-month suspended sentence, an extension to their community order, and a 10-year ban from owning cats and dogs.
Both individuals will also receive specialized mental health interventions and support as part of their penalty.
Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, expressed gratitude for the efforts made to resolve the case: “This was an extremely complex and heartbreaking case for all involved. I want to sincerely thank our hardworking Environmental Protection team, and animal warden, as well as our partner agencies for their intervention in this situation. The coordinated investigation and prosecution will allow these animals the chance to find safe, forever homes with new owners, and crucially, allow two individuals to access the mental health support they need. The council remains committed to investigating issues related to licensing and animal welfare fully and taking action where necessary to protect animals.”