Florida: Larry Kruger will be on probation for 6 years and must get mental health counseling to deal with his need to hoard animals, causing suffering and death

FLORIDA -- Larry Kruger said he loved his cats — all 161 of them. In fact, a veterinarian said Kruger spent $28,000 on their health care in one year, reports the Pensacola News Journal.

Kruger ran what he called a "cat shelter." When owners of two other cat shelters gave up their shelters, Kruger took in the cats, according to the News Journal.

But his love for his cats grew into an unhealthy obsession: The cats were sick with diseases and parasites. The home was full of feces. Neighbors complained about the stench, reports the News-Journal.

Kruger, 62, was arrested March 22 on eight felony charges of causing pain and suffering to animals and 161 misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty. Eight dead cats were found in a freezer, waiting to be cremated, according to the News Journal.

Authorities gave him a warning: Clean up the mess.

But Kruger was overwhelmed by his situation and failed to do so. So authorities arrested him last month.

On Monday a judge sentenced Kruger to 30 days in jail, to be served at times of Kruger's choosing within the next two years. He also was placed on probation for six years, during which time he is forbidden to have any pets. He also was ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation.

(Sun Sentinel - Nov 24, 2010)

Earlier:

• Florida: Larry Kruger, who claimes he's a 'cat rescuer', faces cruelty charges