Dear John,

At a Florida cat breeding operation called Adorable Stars, the antics of kittens of sought-after breeds are streamed online to more than 70,000 followers.

But what the cameras don’t show is a disturbing pattern of sick, parasite-ridden kittens being sold to unsuspecting buyers. Multiple people have been devastated by the severe, sometimes fatal illnesses of their newly acquired companions. The Animal Legal Defense Fund is currently representing three of these individuals in a lawsuit against Adorable Stars and its operators.

Adorable Stars markets itself as a “luxury pet breeder” — but in truth, these animals are mistreated and neglected, receiving inadequate veterinary care.

The Animal Welfare Act requires commercial animal dealers to be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). But Adorable Stars has no such license, and the Animal Legal Defense Fund is urging the USDA to investigate this unscrupulous business, prohibit them from future animal breeding and dealing, and allow the cats and kittens to be removed to a reputable rescue. Will you join us in asking the USDA to do the right thing for these animals?

The Animal Legal Defense Fund is committed to protecting all animals — including the very youngest, like the kittens victimized by Adorable Stars. Thank you for joining us in standing up for these vulnerable animals by urging the USDA to take action.