Madrid, Spain - November 10, 2024 Over 50 cats were rescued in a shocking operation by the Madrid Municipal Police after being found in appalling conditions in a facility claiming to be an animal shelter in the Ciudad Lineal district. The rescue, which took place on November 10, followed complaints from local residents about overwhelming odors coming from the building on Calle Virgen de la Consolación. Upon entering the premises with the help of Madrid’s fire department, police discovered the cats living in squalid, unsanitary conditions, with no access to food or water. The facility, operating as an animal protection association, was found to be infested with waste, with litter boxes filled with feces, windows sealed off, and no light—neither natural nor artificial. Many of the cats were confined to cages, with more than a dozen wandering the premises, showing signs of severe dehydration. Tragically, officers found a dying kitten that had to be euthanized. Those with the most severe symptoms were rushed to the municipal veterinary emergency service, while the others were secured on-site pending further inspection by the City Line District authorities. The facility, which had planned an adoption event for December 9, was operating without the required licenses, insurance, and authorization to house more than five animals. The individual responsible is now under investigation for animal cruelty.