LOVES PARK, Ill. (AP) — Winnebago County animal control officials have removed more than 50 cats and kittens from a home in Loves Park.

The Rockford Register Star reports that Loves Park police officers discovered the cats in squalid conditions Friday evening after being dispatched to the house for a welfare check.

Police called the Fire Department for help because of strong ammonia and urine odors, and crews wore masks and oxygen tanks to search for people. The resident was not home, but issued a notice to appear in court next month.

Fire officials condemned the house, and many of the cats were removed.

Police Sgt. Burt Wilson says many of the cats were hiding and scared. Some were taken to a shelter and animal control officials planned to return to look for more.

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