A mother cat named Barbie and her three kittens were rescued from a boiler room in a residential block in Pimlico, where temperatures reached 45°C. The rescue followed reports from residents who heard meowing coming from the boiler room, prompting Westminster City Council to respond.
Read More
The council's animal warden discovered the cat family hidden behind the boilers, facing extreme heat and cramped conditions. Despite the challenges, Barbie had managed to care for her kittens, estimated to be around three weeks old.
After their rescue, Barbie and her kittens were taken to Blue Cross Animal Hospital in Victoria, London. Amanda Rumball, the London Welfare Officer at Blue Cross, noted that Barbie was initially nervous but calmed down once she realized her babies were safe. Veterinary checks confirmed that Barbie was underweight and dusty but in good health, and her kittens were also well cared for.
Tragically, one kitten was found to have a severe congenital condition and was put to sleep to prevent further suffering. Another kitten, Malibu, has been diagnosed with a Grade 4 heart murmur and remains in foster care until she is old enough for additional medical assessments.
Barbie and her kitten Guiness have already been rehomed, while Blue Cross continues to monitor Malibu until she is ready for adoption. Rumball emphasized the importance of Barbie’s dedication to her kittens, which contributed to their overall health.
Cllr Caroline Sargent, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement, praised the rescue efforts, highlighting the need for pet care awareness during hot weather. She expressed hope that Malibu would soon find a loving home as well.