Dozens of slain cats wrapped in bags were found in a freezer during a police raid of an illegal slaughterhouse in Huaian, East China's Jiangsu Province early on October 30, where authorities explain butchers had been passing off the meat as rabbit and selling it to local restaurants. Photo: CFP

Caged cats are rescued as authorities shut down an illegal slaughterhouse in Huaian, East China's Jiangsu Province on October 30. The 4 am raid was conducted jointly by the local animal health supervision institution, the industrial and commercial administrative department and food security office. Photos: CFP

Whole cat carcasses intended for sale were discovered at the underground abattoir. Reports did not mention whether the slaughterhouse operators were detained or if any charges were pressed.

Skinned and bagged cat carcasses line a freezer.

Discarded cat hides litter the floor of the slaughterhouse.