The BC SPCA says an investigation is underway after 32 cats were left in plastic containers outside its Sunshine Coast animal centre.

Staff discovered the cats on Dec. 5 at about 9 a.m., roughly 20 minutes after they were dropped off outside the centre’s main gate, which was closed at the time. One cat was found dead.

“This is the largest number of animals left at a BC SPCA animal centre that I can recall,” said Marika Donnelly, manager of the Sunshine Coast facility. She noted that while abandoned litters are not unusual, finding more than 30 cats at once is “unheard of.”

The cats, ranging in age from three months to five years, were taped inside multiple containers. Staff moved them into carriers and spent seven hours setting up temporary housing, including dog crates, as the centre already had more than 50 animals and only six kennels available. The centre closed temporarily to manage the intake.

Fifteen cats were later transferred to the Surrey animal centre through the BC SPCA’s Drive for Lives program. Layla Gilhooly, manager of the Surrey facility, said most of the cats are friendly and seeking attention, though some are fearful and under-socialized. All were treated for the parasite coccidia, which required bathing at the start and end of treatment.

One cat was taken to a veterinary clinic after not urinating for 24 hours and was placed on antibiotics and anxiety medication.

The cats have completed quarantine, and some will be available for adoption starting Dec. 19. Others will be ready after spay and neuter procedures.

Kaila Wolf, senior director of media and internal communications, reminded the public that abandoning animals is a crime under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. She urged anyone struggling to surrender a pet to contact the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline.

An animal protection file has been opened, and the BC SPCA is asking for donations to help care for the cats and other animals at spca.bc.ca/donations-emergency-rescue.