Shocking discovery in Vilnius: basket with trapped cats left in the heat

Animal welfare organisation Lesė reported a disturbing incident in the Vilnius district on Monday, sharing a video of a basket containing live cats that had been locked inside and left in the heat.

According to the organisation, the basket was brought to their shelter with a mother cat and her nearly grown kittens trapped inside. The cats were sealed tightly and abandoned near Regitra in scorching temperatures. All the animals suffered severe shock and are in critical condition, disoriented, overheated, and drenched in sweat. Some are experiencing seizures, while others are vomiting or defecating. The body temperature of some cats reached up to 42°C.

Lesė stated that details about the incident are still being gathered, and a report has been filed with the police regarding the cruel treatment of animals. The cats have been transported to a veterinary clinic for emergency care. The organisation is awaiting updates on their condition.

Information on fundraising for the cats’ treatment is available on their social media page.