Montana Animal Cruelty Statute Covers Hoarding Statewide

MCA 45-8-211 defines cruelty to animals, including knowingly or negligently subjecting an animal to mistreatment, neglect, or failing to provide food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Aggravated animal cruelty (MCA 45-8-217) covers torture or cruelty to multiple animals. Hoarding scenarios commonly trigger these provisions when many animals lack adequate care. Convictions allow forfeiture of all animals, mandatory mental health evaluation, and bans on future ownership. The statute applies in every Montana city and county, providing uniform baseline enforcement against hoarding conduct.

First offense cruelty is a misdemeanor up to $1,000 fine and one year jail; aggravated cruelty is a felony punishable by up to two years prison.