The BC SPCA has taken custody of eight Ragdoll cats and kittens from a Nanaimo, BC property following a disturbing case of animal neglect. The animals were surrendered voluntarily to an animal protection officer on April 10, 2025, after a concerned buyer raised alarm over the conditions at the breeder’s home.

The investigation began when a local resident purchased a kitten from the breeder. According to Eileen Drever, the BC SPCA’s senior officer of protection and stakeholder relations, the breeder refused to allow the buyer into the home to view the breeding environment. The kitten handed over showed immediate signs of distress.

“Not only did this breeder deny the buyer entry into their home to see the breeding area, but the kitten they brought out smelled strongly of urine and had fleas crawling into their mouth and eyes,” Drever said.

A veterinary examination confirmed the buyer’s concerns, revealing a bloated abdomen, flea infestation, dark discharge from one eye, ear debris, hair loss, and scabbing. The kitten was in such poor health that the vet postponed its vaccinations and prescribed four medications to address its condition.

The buyer contacted the BC SPCA’s Animal Helpline, prompting an official investigation. Upon visiting the property, the animal protection officer encountered unsanitary conditions, including a strong ammonia smell, overflowing litter boxes, and cat feces scattered on the floor. There was no visible food available for the young kittens.

The breeder surrendered the remaining animals—four adult cats and four eight-week-old kittens—to the BC SPCA. Veterinary assessments confirmed that all the kittens were malnourished and suffering from similar health issues as the first reported case. The adult cats were also in poor condition, with flea allergy dermatitis, skin infections, and in one case, mammary cysts requiring surgery.

Drever emphasized that this case highlights the risks of buying animals from irresponsible breeders. “It is worth repeating, if a breeder will not let you into their home to see how the animals are living then you should not purchase an animal from them,” she says. “Based on the condition of the original kitten, it was clear that the animals in this home were not receiving the care they desperately needed.”

The rescued cats and kittens have since tested positive for ringworm and are currently in quarantine. They will not be available for adoption for at least two months while they undergo treatment.