60 Cats Rescued from Abandoned Sailboat in Washington
A six-day rescue mission in Tacoma saved 60 frightened and malnourished cats living aboard an abandoned sailboat. What started as a report of 30 cats doubled as officers worked around the clock to bring every feline to safety.
When Tacoma's Marine Services Unit arrived at an abandoned 40-foot sailboat off Owen Beach on August 6, they expected to find an empty vessel. Instead, they discovered more than 30 cats and kittens living in unsafe conditions aboard.
The rescue quickly became more complicated than anyone imagined. As officers worked with Animal Control and the Forensics Unit to safely remove the animals, they kept finding more cats hiding throughout the boat.
What began as a 30-cat rescue grew to 60 over six days of careful work. Many of the animals were frightened and malnourished, requiring gentle handling and patience from the rescue teams.
"That's a wrap! The final cat is off the boat. Fur real this time!" the Tacoma Police Department announced when they believed the last cat had been removed. Despite their confidence, officers planned additional searches because cats are exceptionally good at hiding.
The department obtained a search warrant to continue checking the vessel as a precaution. They asked the public to report any sightings but warned against boarding the boat themselves, as the case remains an active criminal investigation.
The Ripple Effect
More than 40 of the rescued cats found safety at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. The remaining animals went to foster homes throughout the area, giving them the individual attention many desperately needed after their ordeal.
The community response was overwhelming, with many animal lovers wanting to help immediately. One private cat trapper even boarded the vessel overnight to rescue two cats, though police noted this complicated their investigation into the vessel's owner.
The Marine Services Unit has begun the process of having the legally registered vessel moved. No arrests or charges have been announced yet, but authorities continue working to protect both the animals and the integrity of their investigation.
All 60 cats are now safe, warm, and receiving the care they need to recover from their time at sea.
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Based on reporting by Fox News Latest Headlines (all sections)
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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