The picturesque Mecklenburgische Seenplatte district in Germany is a popular holiday destination. From the outside, nothing indicated the horrifying truth hidden behind Gerda M.'s house doors.
The pensioner led a perfectly concealed double life, the full extent of which only came to light after authorities intervened. This despite the fact that officials knew since last summer that the 76-year-old's situation was particularly problematic.
Authority intervention
The picturesque Mecklenburgische Seenplatte district in Germany, a popular holiday destination, gave no hint of the disturbing reality. The pensioner led a concealed double life, which only came to light after authorities intervened.
This came despite the fact that officials had known since last summer that the 76-year-old’s situation was particularly concerning.
The district veterinarian initially hoped that talks with Gerda M. would improve the situation, but these efforts were unsuccessful. Staff at the Malchow animal shelter then approached the doctor for urgent help.
When authorities intervened, they were shocked. Protective clothing was necessary due to the extreme conditions inside the house. "The ammonia smell was so strong that normal breathing was almost impossible," said Margret Kuhlmann, manager of the Malchow animal shelter.
The stench was caused by cat urine. Without litter boxes, Gerda M.'s cats relieved themselves throughout the cluttered house, with the urine soaking into the rubbish. "The fumes were dangerous for the animals and harmful to human health," Kuhlmann explained.
Animal suffering in a rubbish-filled house
The conditions were tragic. The cats had no food bowls, and rubbish was everywhere. For at least two cats, help came too late; their mummified remains were found.
The rescued animals were in a dire state: emaciated, dehydrated, partially hairless, and suffering from infections. Some were so weak they could barely walk.
The cats were immediately transported to shelters in Neustrelitz and Malchow, where they began their recovery.
A new life now awaits these cats, far from the horror they endured.
