COMMERCE TOWNSHIP, MI – Police are investigating possible animal abuse and neglect after 38 cats were rescued from a house fire last week in Commerce Township.
The cats were found to be living in “concerning conditions” unrelated to the fire, officials said in a news release.
Oakland County Animal Control Division is conducting the investigation after they were called to assist at the fire Thursday morning, Oct. 20. Firefighters had rescued 38 cats from the blaze on Winewood Lane in Commerce Township. Five more cats were found dead.
The surviving cats are being evaluated and treated at the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center in Pontiac.
The remains of the five deceased cats were sent to Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine for necropsies to determine the causes of the deaths.
The investigation is ongoing. Once concluded, a report will be sent to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, which will determine whether to bring charges.
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