Cary, N.C. — Dozens of cats were removed from a Cary home Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

Animal control officers responded to a call that cats were wandering in the front yard of 8626 Chapel Hill Road, and homeowner Jean Diaz agreed to surrender the animals, authorities said.

“I really wasn't ready for the fact these cats had eight or nine kittens at a time,” Diaz said.

Sixty-five cats were removed from the home, and after being examined, only 36 were able to be saved.

“The other ones had to be euthanized, had to be put down because of health issues. They had a discharge from their eyes and had to be put down,” said Chris Davis, support services manager for the Cary Police Department.

Animal control officers worked to place as many of the cats as possible with area rescue organizations.

As for the cats taken from the house that were saved, when animal control put out the word for help, it didn't take long for one rescue group to answer the call.

Cat Angels Pet Adoptions rescued 25 of the animals. The group plans to spay, neuter, vaccinate and then put the cats up for adoption.

“They seem to all be well mannered. Some of them have upper respiratory issues that we can work through. They're friendly and clean. They've been indoors most of their lives,” said Deborah Fox, with Cat Angels Pet Adoptions.

Diaz was allowed to keep four of the cats. She said she is relieved that the cats will be getting the treatment that she couldn't afford to provide.

“The only male that I have is neutered. So, there won't be any worries about more kittens,” Diaz said.

The other 11 cats were being held late Wednesday at Cary’s animal control facility.

Anyone interested in adopting one of the cats is asked to call Cat Angels Pet Adoptions at 919-463-9586 or visit the group at 102-F Woodwinds Industrial Court in Cary from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.