YOUNGSTOWN - On Tuesday Jan. 17, the Animal Charity of Ohio's humane department received a call about a possible hoarding case on Kendis Circle on Youngstown's east side. 

"Our humane department got a report of a possible cat hoarding case, so they went out yesterday to check to see the conditions," Evelyn Shealy, director of development for Animal Charity of Ohio said.

Inside the apartment, agents found 53 cats living in cramped and unsanitary conditions, many were covered in waste. 
 
"They are covered in urine and feces, so we're getting them cleaned up. Because of that, some of them are suffering from upper respiratory infections, so we're getting them medically treated and taken care of," Shealy said.
 
The director told 21 News that it is the largest number of cats the organization has seen in a hoarding case so far this year.
 
The owner will not face any charges because agents believe the hoarding stems from a mental health issue and the cats were surrendered.
 
"All animals are surrendered into our care, so they're able to start their new journey," Shealy said.
 
Animal Charity of Ohio is currently caring for 266 animals, the organization is asking the community to consider adopting or fostering.
 
 
Adoption hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
 
The organization is also offering a special deal through the end of February with half-off adoption fees.