Deep within the walls of an abandoned home in Philadelphia, PA, a family of felines had built a cozy nest. Here they could hunker down, avoid the elements and remain hidden from human interference. However, when they began to use the space as a neonatal nursery, their space filled up quickly. And while that was no place for ANY animal to try to survive, it was even less so for the new additions.
Luckily for the cats, they were discovered when the contractor began demolition on the walls of the dilapidated structure.
When the owners had heard small, muffled sounds coming from behind the walls, they knew something needed help. Their contractor went to work exploring the area before the unknown animal(s) could be injured in the dangerous space. He carefully began to open a hole and searched for the cause of the commotion. It wasn’t long after that a newborn kitten fell out from the walls and into his waiting hands!
Knowing it was unlikely the tiny neonate was alone, he continued his delicate demo.
And for 8 HOURS he remained at the home, removing cat after cat and kitten after kitten from the walls. The poor creatures were in poor health though and it wasn’t clear just how long they had been within the beams. Were they actually trapped?! He refused to stop until he was sure every last one of them was out of their makeshift tomb.
A total of 9 adult cats and 7 kittens were rescued out of the walls by the heroic contractor.
The unnamed gentleman rushed the felines to Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT) in Philadelphia. Right away, they had full medical exams and treatments began to restore their health. Unfortunately, one of the tiny newborns did not make it. But this only reinforced their efforts to ensure the others were given a chance at life.
The remaining animals were bathed to rid themselves of the dirt and grime from the construction site. They are “not in great shape” ACCT representatives told news outlets.
The cats are scared, some will require more socialization, but right now they are resting in their cages.
While they are quite standoffish now, over the next few weeks, hopefully they will realize they are now safe. At that time they will decide if the older cats are able to be adopted out or the best option is TNVR. It’s possible that they have never even experienced the kindness of humans. They need time to “let down the walls around their hearts” so-to-speak.
So as their parents finally relax and can allow the rescue workers to take over their duties, they can heal at their own pace. The kittens that are of age will be spay/neutered, vaccinated and are up for adoptions now. As for the neonates, I’m sure their journey through foster care until they are old enough for “furever homes” will be just as special as their rescue story.
