Authorities in Tacoma, Washington, faced an unusual situation when they discovered an abandoned sailboat with 60 cats and kittens off Owen Beach. The Tacoma Police Department’s Marine Services Unit launched the operation on August 6, after reports of a deserted 40-foot sailboat.
The initial rescue revealed over 30 cats living in dire conditions. Many were frightened and malnourished. Marine Services collaborated with Animal Control and the department’s Forensics Unit to safely remove the animals. Over six days, the effort expanded to rescuing a total of 60 cats and kittens.
“That’s a wrap! The final cat is off the boat. Fur real this time!” the police reported.
Animal Control expressed confidence that all cats were off the vessel, though the police acknowledged that there’s always a chance more cats might still be hiding. Thus, additional checks would be performed under a search warrant.
Authorities also began the process of relocating the legally registered sailboat. They urged beach visitors and nearby boaters to alert Animal Control if more cats were seen, advising against personal rescue attempts.
The case turned into an active criminal investigation. The integrity of the case was threatened when a private cat rescuer boarded the vessel without authorization, capturing two cats and taking them to the Humane Society. This action complicated the police investigation.
Over 40 of the rescued cats were sent to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, while the rest found refuge in local foster homes. As of now, no arrests or charges have been announced in connection with the sailboat or its owner.