Tacoma, Arizona - Tacoma police were shocked to find dozens of cats living on an abandoned boat they had been called in to examine. Most of the poor animals were severely malnourished and frightened.

Local police had received several reports about a boat in the waters off Owen Beach, prompting officers on site to investigate for themselves.

The small yacht was still privately owned, so the police first needed a search warrant before they could board and inspect it.

"What our officers found inside was unexpected," the Tacoma Police Department wrote in a Facebook post.

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The officers discovered more than 30 cats and kittens, some huddled in crates and surrounded by a great deal of feces and dust.

"Many of the cats were frightened and malnourished, requiring patience, care, and a tremendous amount of teamwork from our members," the report continued.

Working together with the animal control agency and the forensics team, rescuers immediately set out to free the poor cat from this nightmare – a task made difficult by the animal’s extreme fear.

It took the rescuers a full two days to get all the cats off the boat and into safety.

Investigators have now learned more about the boat’s owner, but have not yet been able to locate him.

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An investigation into him is already underway.

"We’re proud of our Marine Services officers, Animal Control officers, and Forensic Technicians for their compassion and dedication – not only to the people they serve, but to every member of our community who needs a helping hand," reads the Facebook post.

The felines were taken to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society, where they can recover from their ordeal and regain their strength.