OTTUMWA, Iowa (KCRG) - An Ottumwa woman faces charges after inspectors removed more than 40 cats from what police described as unsafe and unsanitary living conditions.

The Heartland Humane Society in Ottumwa is now caring for 44 cats. Assistant Manager Courtney Monohon says the animals are finally cleaned up and recovering — but they’re still scared and adjusting to new surroundings.

“They’re not mean, they’re just terrified, so they will hiss,” Monohon said. “They’ve probably never seen other people besides this one lady.”

Police say officers were describing the smell of the home as “an offensive odor” both inside and out. Monohon, who went inside, says what she saw was overwhelming.

“Not one single litter box,” she said. “Every single thing in that house was one and a half to two i

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