40 Cats Rescued from Abandoned Sailboat in Tacoma

When Tacoma police officers climbed aboard an abandoned sailboat on August 6, they weren't prepared for what greeted them. More than 40 cats and kittens had made the vessel their home, living among the masts and rigging in a surreal scene that left rescuers stunned.

"The best way I can describe it is it looked like a Studio Ghibli movie," said Officer John Correa. "It was their boat, and they were all out and about roaming around on it."

The discovery came after the Marine Services Unit responded to reports of an abandoned sailboat anchored off the shores of Tacoma, Washington. What followed was a careful, daylong rescue mission requiring patience and teamwork from multiple city departments.

Many of the cats were frightened and malnourished, hiding in the countless nooks and crannies only a sailboat could provide. The tight quarters made the rescue particularly challenging, requiring officers to coax each cat out gently before transporting them by boat to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County.

By the following afternoon, 31 cats had been safely removed and were receiving care. While most had fleas and had been living in less than sanitary conditions, there were signs someone had tried to care for them at some point.

"They have been clearly fed and watered, but they've been on that boat for some time," explained Cheri Page of Tacoma Animal Control. Evidence suggested the cats had been living aboard for months, possibly longer.

Sunny's Take

This floating feline community captured hearts across social media, with the Tacoma Police Department's Facebook post resonating with animal lovers everywhere. The image of officers carefully carrying cat carriers across the water reminded people that compassion extends to every member of our community, no matter how many legs they have.

The rescue also highlighted an important lesson about responsible pet ownership. Page emphasized that situations like this often start with just a few unspayed cats that quickly multiply into an overwhelming situation.

As of August 10, all cats were receiving medical care and would eventually be available for adoption, transforming a concerning discovery into dozens of second chances at loving homes.