MERCED COUNTY, CA (September 24, 2025) — Thirty-two Persian cats rescued from a U-Haul in Santa Nella earlier this year remain in the care of the Merced County Animal Shelter, and a limited number are now being prepared for adoption.
County officials confirmed that five cats are expected to be cleared for new homes in the coming weeks, with additional cats made available as their health continues to improve. Due to overwhelming public interest, the shelter will use a lottery system to determine which applicants will be selected to adopt.
Applications can be submitted at the Merced County Animal Shelter, or through the county’s website. The shelter is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Updates on adoption opportunities will be posted on the Merced County Sheriff’s Animal Services Bureau social media pages.
Not all of the cats will be eligible for adoption, as some continue to need specialized or long-term medical care. Officials urged interested adopters to be patient and to prepare for the extra attention and veterinary support these animals may require.
