Mass cat rescue: Over 100 felines saved from CA Taco Bell parking lot

Merced County officials rescued more than 100 cats from a U-Haul van parked outside a Taco Bell in Santa Nella on Sunday, in what authorities are calling one of the worst animal cruelty cases in recent years.

A sheriff’s deputy was dispatched for a welfare check after multiple cats were seen through the vehicle’s windows. Initially estimating around 20 cats in distress, responding animal control officers discovered 106 severely emaciated cats crammed inside the van — along with 28 dead felines, according to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office.

“There was no food or water available, and temperatures outside reached 99 degrees. Inside the sealed van, conditions were likely far more extreme, posing deadly risks of heatstroke,” said Deputy Alexandra Britton. “It’s heartbreaking. Animals are our companions, and seeing them treated this way is devastating.”

The cats, ranging in age from 1 week to 8 years, were immediately taken to the Merced County Animal Shelter for treatment. Despite their condition, officials said many of them are in surprisingly good spirits.

The van’s owner was arrested and booked into Merced County Jail on 93 counts of animal cruelty. The cats will be placed on a 14-day hold following a seizure hearing, after which those medically cleared will be made available for adoption.

Authorities are urging the public to report signs of animal neglect and to remember that vehicle interiors can become dangerously hot, even on mild days.