An animal control officer responded to a heartbreaking call this week after two cats were discovered abandoned inside a vacant apartment, left behind in conditions described as “absolute squalor.”
A post shared by Wabash County Animal Shelter, Inc. Wabash, Indiana, said the cats were found after a landlord entered the apartment and discovered the animals hiding inside the unit. Rather than being out in the open, the felines had tucked themselves into holes in the floor beneath a refrigerator and near a toilet, attempting to survive in isolation.
“They were scared, confused, and completely alone,” the department wrote. “Doing whatever they could to survive.”
Officials said the timing of the discovery was critical. Had the landlord found the animals any later, the situation could have had a far more tragic outcome.
A shoutout was given in the post to the animal control officer who responded to the call, with the department noting the difficulty and emotional toll of situations like this. “This job is not easy, and moments like this show just how important—and impactful—it truly is,” the post continued. “We see a lot in this line of work, but situations like this never get easier.”
The post included a direct plea to pet owners struggling with changing life circumstances. “Please…do not abandon your pets,” the department wrote. “If you are struggling, if your situation has changed, if you feel overwhelmed—reach out. There are resources, rescues, and people who can help. Abandonment is not the answer.”
The message struck a chord online, prompting an outpouring of emotional reactions from the community.
“Thankful to have a shelter like you guys, who truly care for animals, this is heart breaking,” wrote Chelsea Garland.
“So happy they were found!! I don’t know why people do this to their pets,” added Crystal Michelle King.
Others praised the officer involved in the rescue. “She’s an amazing ACO who’s always had a huge heart for animals. Being able to save them was her calling,” Jessica Noland commented.
Multiple viewers echoed the same sentiment, stressing that animals deserve better. “So heartbreaking. 100% agree they don’t deserve that, ever. So very thankful they were found,” wrote Leah Fraley, with Carol Meredith sharing an identical reaction.
The department closed its post with a message that resonated widely: domesticated animals rely entirely on humans for food, shelter, and safety—and abandoning them can have devastating consequences: “Let’s do better—for them.”
