MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Officials with Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW) are looking for information related to a “disturbing” case where three cats were abandoned in a crate along a road in Bradenton.

On Monday, July 29, animal welfare officers found an abandoned crate containing three cats in the 1700 block of Lena Road.

One of the cats was found dead, while the others were lethargic, severely underweight and in critical condition, officials said.

Animal welfare officers believe the cats may have started to eat the dead cat in a desperate attempt to survive.

“This kind of abuse has no place in Manatee County,” said George Kruse, Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) chair, who has long championed animal welfare efforts in the community. “We stand with MCAW and law enforcement in our commitment to investigate and prosecute this cruelty to the fullest extent of the law.”

The two surviving cats were taken to the Bishop Animal Shelter, where they are receiving lifesaving care and treatment.

MCAW said the cats are sweet and affectionate and hopes to place them in a loving home once they recover.

“This is one of the most heartbreaking cases of animal neglect we’ve seen,” said Sarah Brown, director of Manatee County Animal Welfare. “These animals suffered immensely. There is no excuse for this level of cruelty, and we are using every tool available to hold the party responsible.”

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Manatee County Animal Welfare at 941-742-5933.

“Animal abuse is not just a violation of the law, it’s a violation of our community’s values,” said Brown. “Help us ensure no animal suffers like this again.”