TACOMA, Wash. — Tacoma Police and Animal Control rescued more than 40 cats and kittens from an abandoned sailboat anchored off Owen Beach on Thursday. The police initially responded to reports of a vessel exhibiting improper lighting, only to find it occupied entirely by cats.
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Following their discovery, officers returned with the Marine Services Unit to address the situation. The conditions inside the sailboat were deemed unsafe for the cats, prompting a coordinated effort to remove them, which continued into Friday.
A total of 31 cats were ultimately transported to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County. Jesse Molloy, who was walking with his family along Owen Beach, expressed disbelief at the situation, stating, "That’s incredible, just such a surprise, how did they get on there?"
As of Friday evening, between 10 and 14 additional cats remained on board, reportedly hiding or too frightened to be captured. Observers from shore noted multiple cats visible on the boat.
Cheri Page from Tacoma Animal Control detailed the challenges of the recovery, stating, "Unlike a normal case, we do need assistance with getting out there [by boat], and then there’s the challenge of the boat itself… with a lot of nooks and crannies for cats to hide in." Despite the circumstances, she mentioned that many of the cats appeared to be in relatively good condition, though they did have fleas and had likely been living on the boat for months.
Animal Control has reached out to a possible owner but has yet to establish communication. As of Friday afternoon, no charges or fees were being discussed, as the investigation remains ongoing. Page highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership, particularly the need for spaying and neutering, stating, "People start with just a few cats, and unfortunately they do what cats do, and make more cats."
Tacoma Police commended the efforts of the Marine Services officers, Animal Control personnel, and forensic technicians involved in the rescue.