A woman was arrested in Kyiv region for neglecting 51 cats: she faces up to 8 years in prison.

According to ТСН: A dreadful situation regarding animal cruelty in Kyiv region has received judicial continuation. A 55-year-old resident of the Obukhiv district, who created a real hell for cats in her home, was taken into custody.

This was reported by the Prosecutor's Office of Kyiv region.

Terrifying details became known on December 18, 2025, when a volunteer contacted the police with information about inhumane conditions for animals in a private house in the village of Kremenyshche.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officers discovered a horrifying scene. Dozens of animals were living in terrible unsanitary conditions, cramped and without proper food.

During the inspection, the police found 51 deceased animals. The bodies of the cats were sent to the capital's veterinary hospital for examination and to determine the cause of death.

It turned out that the woman acted under the guise of a benefactor, taking in stray animals supposedly for 'temporary care'. Moreover, she received assistance from caring people and volunteers - food and necessary items. But instead of saving the cats, she left them to fend for themselves, effectively condemning them to a starving death.

What happened to the other animals

Fortunately, part of the animals was saved. Law enforcement officers and volunteers removed 39 live cats from the 'house of death'.

The rescued pets were taken to another shelter, where they received emergency veterinary care and treatment for exhaustion, as well as proper care.

Prosecutors petitioned for the suspect to be placed in custody for a period of 60 days.

The woman is charged under Part 3 of Article 299 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (cruelty to animals resulting in their death in large numbers). The penalty of this article provides for serious punishment - from 5 to 8 years of imprisonment.

It is also worth mentioning another scandal in Odesa, where the new establishment Cat Lounge in the shopping center 'Athens' caused outrage among animal protection activists due to the death of two animals as a result of its activities.

This horrifying incident reminds us once again of the responsibility taken on by those who care for stray animals. It is crucial to provide proper care and conditions for their lives to avoid similar tragedies in the future. Animal protection activists call for increased control over shelters and individuals who take on such an important role in helping animals.