That is really frustrating!!
I think I'd be tempted to drop the cats off on ah's door step with a note saying here are your cats and a bag of food.
Deeds are a matter of public record. You can get a copy of that at the county's Register of Deeds. Deed's will show the purchase price of the house and buyer/sellor but not lenders etc. I hope your mom turns that info over without further drama. If not you have to get a title search to show any leans against the house - and those cost money. I don't know how to do them independently.