Five of the 21 Sphyx cats that were seized last month by Henderson animal control from local breeder Shanti Cloonan have died, a city spokesperson said Friday.
“Out of the 21 Sphynx cats rescued, five of them passed away after the seizure due to their severe illness and failing health,” the city’s public information office said in an email.
A spokesperson added six dead cats were impounded from a freezer in Cloonan’s residence. The city announced the seizure on Aug. 27, after stating a judge had determined Cloonan was unfit to retain ownership of the animals.
Potential criminal charges are being reviewed by the City Attorney’s office, according to the city’s Friday statement.
“At this time, Shanti Cloonan has not been arrested,” the city said. “This is an active investigation and no other information is available.”
The city said on Aug. 27 it was awarded custody of the 21 cats. Many of the cats were found suffering from illnesses and physical abnormalities, associated with breeding practices that raised animal welfare concerns, the city said previously.
The city said it was seeking any information on cats that experienced significant health issues that were purchased from Sin City Sphynx or Cloonan. Anyone with information is being asked to contact Henderson Animal Protection Services at 702-267-4970.
Contact Casey Harrison at charrison@reviewjournal.com. Follow @Casey_Harrison1 on X.
