On 6 August, the marine services unit of the Tacoma Police Department in the US responded to reports of an abandoned 40-foot sailboat off Owen Beach, Washington. Once on board, officers discovered around 30 frightened and undernourished cats and kittens living in squalid conditions.
What was expected to be a quick rescue operation turned into a six-day mission. Working alongside animal control officers and forensic teams, rescuers eventually saved a total of 60 felines hidden throughout the vessel.
A delicate rescue and an ongoing investigation
Although all of the animals now appear to be safe, police are continuing to search the vessel under a warrant. Since cats are experts at hiding, authorities want to make absolutely sure no feline is left behind before towing the sailboat away.
As a criminal investigation is currently underway, police have urged the public to stay away from the boat. An independent rescuer had boarded the vessel overnight to retrieve two cats, which has complicated the investigation into the owner.
Caring for the rescued cats
No arrests have been made so far. However, help for the rescued cats was quick to arrive. More than 40 of them have been taken in by the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, while the rest have been placed with local foster families.