William Tinkler was charged with animal cruelty one day after police found the remains of about 60 cats in a van outside his home.
The 60-year-old is free on bond.
It is not clear how the animals died or how long they were inside the van.
Neighbors tell ABC7 they knew Tinkler had many cats, but they contend he seemed to be a responsible pet owner and a good neighbor.
Several surviving cats were taken to a nearby animal hospital.
"The cats have respiratory infections," said Golf Rose Animal Hospital's Charles Bulson. "One of them is a little malnourished. He'll need some good food, some antibiotics, which we've already started, and some time. He should be a-OK."
Once the animals are healthy, the courts will decide whether they can be put up for adoption.
