Overview
- Suffolk County SPCA said an anonymous tip led officers to a Patricia Avenue property with Maine Coon cats spread across a house, an RV and an outbuilding.
- Officials described overwhelming urine and feces odors and noted cats with matted fur, open sores, fleas and ear mites.
- The Town of Islip fire marshal condemned the residence as unsafe, and rescue operations stretched from Tuesday into early Wednesday.
- Grace Etzelsberger, 66, was charged with misdemeanor animal neglect as investigators continue to ensure no animals were missed.
- The cats are being moved to multiple shelters for veterinary evaluation and adoption, while investigators probe licensing compliance after her cattery website and social media were taken offline.