Toronto Humane Society officials rescued 30 cats that were found living in deplorable conditions inside a self-described animal rescue centre.

Workers say they were overwhelmed by the stench of urine and feces as they raided the independent shelter known as both Feline First Cat Rescue and Ferals First Taming Centre, on Woodbine Avenue at Gerrard Street, the Toronto Sun reported.

The raid came three days after a society investigator found two dead cats in the basement of the storefront business.

"This place is unacceptable and overcrowded -- three are very sick," veterinarian Dr. Vivian Unger told the Sun during her observations of the scene.

She later diagnosed at least six of the cats with highly contagious diseases, including feline intestinal parasites and upper respiratory infections.

Investigator Trevor Smith, Unger and animal wranglers found the feral cats living in cages or running loose in the foul-smelling store.

"Our investigation is ongoing and charges could follow," society spokesman Lee Oliver told the newspaper. "The place was unsafe and unhygienic as a storefront operation."

The humane society began investigating the shelter several months ago after receiving complaints from the public, the Sun reported. Residents described unsafe conditions, overcrowding and a large number of visibly ill cats.

Investigators further allege the shelter owner was setting traps around the neighbourhood and capturing feral cats, some of which may have been local pets.

"At least two of the (confiscated) cats were wearing ID tags," said Smith, who believes the felines were being sold to prospective owners for $175.

Kim Pearce, the shelter's owner, said in a phone interview with the newspaper that she does not sell the cats and the animals are treated well. Pearce calls herself an animal rights activist and said she traps the feral cats for their own protection.

Area residents who have lost cats recently are being urged to contact the humane society 416-392-2273.