ACARG manager Charlene Barnes said she arrived at work last Wednesday to tend to the cats only to find the donation tins ripped from the chains on the front counter and the place in a chaotic state.
‘Thieves had kicked in the back door, trashed the inside, taken the donation tins and our petty cash and broken into all the cupboards,’ she said.
‘We don’t keep much money here, but just the fact that someone could do this has left us all feeling really gutted.’
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READ NOWNone of the 30 cats at the rescue centre were harmed, but some were let out of their cages and kitty litter trays were tossed upside down.
The centre also had to close its doors for the first time since it opened 20 months ago while police forensics investigated the incident.
Ms Barnes said the organisation, which is dedicated to saving lost, stray and abandoned animals, relied on donations and volunteers to operate.
It is currently in need of garbage bags, kitten litter, flea and worm treatment, kitten biscuits and fresh dog food.
To donate, contact Charlene Barnes on 9399 4906 or email acarg@iinet.net.au.