LITTLE FORT, B.C. — The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says it has seized 13 exotic cats that were found in "horrific conditions" outside of Kamloops, B.C.
The SPCA says in a statement that 10 adult serval cats and three kittens were taken from a breeder in Little Fort after it received complaints of sick and injured animals being sold.
It says most of the African cats were being kept in RV trailers on the property and were exposed to high levels of ammonia from urine, with litter boxes overflowing with feces.
The SPCA says there was no proper ventilation or access to water despite high temperatures, and no natural light because the windows were covered.
The animals were removed with the help of a conservation officer and are being cared for at an undisclosed location.
Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer, says in a statement that the African cats require extensive space to run and a highly enriched environment to express natural play and hunting behaviours.
"They are carnivores and require a very specialized diet to meet their physical needs, including proper bone development," she says.
"The idea of these beautiful wild animals being confined in captivity is disturbing enough, but in this case, the animals were kept indoors in substandard conditions without access to the outdoors or exercise."
Moriarty says the case fits with a trend of substandard breeders who have very attractive websites so buyers are unaware of how distressing the actual living conditions are for the animals.
All interactions are online and buyers never visit the property, she says.
In addition the 13 exotic cats, the SPCA also seized two dogs and one domestic cat in distress from the same property.
Serval cats are not included in the provincial controlled alien species legislation, which means their breeding is not regulated.
The investigation is ongoing but the SPCA says it will recommend charges of animal cruelty in the case.