An abandoned sailboat off Owen Beach in Washington, USA, was discovered to be home to more than 40 cats and kittens. Police responding to reports of improper lighting found the felines living in crowded, unsafe conditions on the small vessel.
Rescue Operation and Stubborn Felines
Officers coordinated with Animal Control and the department's Forensics Unit to safely remove the animals. Thirty-one cats were transported to a local animal charity, but approximately 10 to 14 of the seafaring kitties refused to leave their ship.
Locals expressed shock at the situation. “That’s incredible, just such a surprise, how did they get on there,” said Jesse Molloy.
Challenges of the Sailboat Rescue
Cheri Page with Tacoma Animal Control described the difficulties: “Unlike a normal case, we do need assistance with getting out there [by boat], and then there’s the challenge of the boat itself, pretty close quarters, and because it is a sail boat there’s a lot of nooks and crannies for cats to hide in.”
Page noted the cats were in good condition apart from a flea infestation. “They have been clearly fed and watered, but they’ve been on that boat for some time,” she said, estimating they had been there for months.
Investigation and Public Reminder
Animal Control has attempted to contact the boat's owner but has not received a response as the investigation continues.
Page highlighted the case as a reminder for people overwhelmed with animals to seek help. “People start with just a few cats and they’re not spayed or neutered, and unfortunately they do what cats do, and make more cats. That’s why at Tacoma Animal Control, we really emphasize that you spay and neuter your cats, and dogs.”
