Merced County, CA Animal Ordinances: Animal Hoarding (2026)

While Merced County Code Chapter 7.04 does not define 'animal hoarding' by that term in the sources reviewed, the County controls animal accumulation through its limits and permits: a household may keep no more than four dogs or cats over four months of age, and five or more requires a kennel or cattery permit. Animals kept in prohibited numbers or without required permits are subject to impoundment (Section 7.04.190). The Code also empowers the animal control manager to impound any animal that is, or will be, without proper care due to the involuntary absence or incapacity of the owner, and to take up animals existing in a condition prohibited by the chapter. Severe hoarding cases — where animals suffer from neglect, lack of food/water, or unsanitary conditions — are prosecuted under California Penal Code Section 597 (animal cruelty/neglect), which can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. The County may also work with nonprofit 501(c)(3) rescue and adoption organizations when stray animals would otherwise be euthanized (Section 7.04.190). Report suspected hoarding or neglect to Merced County Animal Services.