Austin Woman Charged With 13 Counts of Animal Cruelty After Cats Found Abandoned
AUSTIN, Texas — A South Austin investigation has led to multiple animal cruelty charges after authorities found more than a dozen cats abandoned in unsafe conditions inside an apartment, according to the Austin Police Department.
Police said 27-year-old Nayzak Najm is facing 13 Class A misdemeanor charges for cruelty to non-livestock animals (abandonment).
Officers with the department’s Animal Cruelty Unit responded around 5:22 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026, to an apartment complex in the 10100 block of South 1st Street after a resident reported malnourished cats inside a neighboring unit.
Apartment management told officers the former tenant, identified as Najm, had moved out in mid-January after turning in her keys, and the lease expired Jan. 31. While preparing the unit for repairs following flooding issues, management discovered the animals.
When officers entered the apartment, they reported conditions consistent with a hoarding environment, including debris, standing water and widespread animal waste.
A total of 15 cats were found inside. Authorities said 12 were alive but malnourished, while one cat was in critical condition and taken to an emergency veterinary clinic, where euthanasia was recommended due to the severity of its condition.
Two additional cats were found deceased. Investigators said evidence suggested the remains had been partially consumed by surviving animals, and the exact cause of death could not be determined.
Animal control removed the surviving cats for evaluation and care.
Detectives determined Najm abandoned the animals without providing food, water or care after vacating the apartment. Charges were filed for 13 surviving cats associated with the case. No charges were filed related to the deceased cats due to the inability to determine their cause of death.
Arrest warrants have been issued and approved by a municipal court judge.
Police remind the public that abandoning animals is illegal and encourage anyone unable to care for pets to seek help through local shelters, rescue groups or veterinary providers.
