TIVERTON, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said that 18 cats were removed from Bajah’s Cat Café on Main Street in Tiverton. The RISPCA said that it responded to the café alongside the Tiverton Police Department, Tiverton Animal Control and officials from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to find over 20 cats, some of which showed signs of mild upper respiratory infection. The Rhode Island Department of Health added that there were no health and safety issues found related to the food service environment of the café. The cats were voluntarily surrendered, except for the two cats owned by the café’s owner, and all were said to be well cared for. The RISPCA said that three of the cats were immediately adopted by individuals who planned to adopt them from the café, and the rest were being held at the Warwick shelter. Some of the cats were being tested for the upper respiratory disease, as it can transfer to humans. The RISPCA added that the owner was informed of the permits and approvals that will be required to re-open as a rescue facility that accepts surrenders and processes adoption. and she said she would complete them. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said that it is conducting an inspection of the site. No animal cruelty charges have been filed. Categories: News, Rhode Island