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33 cats rushed to safety

Posted on Dec. 19, 2025Jan. 9, 2026

It happened again.

We can’t believe we’re having to tell you about another large cat rescue so soon after the last one. This time it was an evening call from the Johnston Police Department on Wednesday asking for help with dozens of cats in a single home. Within hours Thursday, we were on the premises with police, removing 33 cats and transporting them to safety.

Many of the cats are suffering from upper respiratory infections – some so severe we could hear their breathing across the room. They also had fleas, serious dental issues that may require surgery, and ear mites so severe that some had open wounds behind their ears from desperate, intense scratching.

Just as our rescue team acted without hesitation, our medical and animal care teams mobilized quickly, working into the evening to evaluate and provide care for every cat.

While these large-scale rescue efforts are becoming all too familiar, we can’t become numb to the suffering. Vulnerable animals like these cats need you. Without your support, there would be no one to answer the call, and we can’t imagine what would happen then.

Plus, when you give a one-time or monthly gift today, your donation will be quadrupled – up to $23,000 – thanks to a generous matching gift opportunity from Fetch Pet Insurance. Your donation will make 4X the difference!

Please give today. Your support will ensure the ARL will always be there when the next call comes … and we know it will come, we just don’t know when.

Donate

P.S.: When you give today or join our Loyal Friends Club monthly giving program, you’ll be automatically enrolled to receive updates on these cats.

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Email: arl@arl-iowa.org   .   Phone: (515) 262-9503

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