Tacoma officers and Animal Control found 60 cats and kittens living aboard an abandoned 40-foot sailboat near Owen Beach after an Aug. 6 inspection. Many animals were frightened, malnourished and in need of care; responders conducted a nearly weeklong rescue and search to remove all animals. Authorities are investigating the situation as possible neglect or hoarding and are reviewing potential violations of local pet-license and household-pet limits.
Tacoma Rescue: 60 Cats Pulled From Abandoned Sailboat as Cruelty Probe Continues
Photo Credit: Tacoma Police Department
An abandoned 40-foot sailboat anchored near Owen Beach in Tacoma, Washington, became the focus of a criminal inquiry after responders found 60 cats and kittens living aboard in hazardous, overcrowded conditions.
Tacoma police first inspected the vessel on Aug. 6 and discovered dozens of felines packed inside the craft. Officers and Tacoma Animal Control described many of the animals as frightened, malnourished and in need of veterinary attention.
In a statement, the Tacoma Police Department said rescuing the animals "required patience, care, and a tremendous amount of teamwork" from multiple responders. Photographs released by authorities show cats crowded throughout the boat as personnel in protective gear carried crates and carriers away.
Crews conducted a careful, nearly weeklong search of the 40-foot vessel to make sure no animals were missed. After sustained efforts, officials confirmed that the final cat had been removed and announced a final count of 60 animals.
Investigators say the facts gathered so far suggest serious neglect and are exploring whether the situation meets the definition of animal hoarding under Washington state law. Police have not yet released details about potential charges.
Local rules require pet licensing and limit households to six dogs and cats combined; authorities say the presence of five dozen cats on a single vessel would clearly violate those restrictions. The investigation remains active as officials work to determine how so many animals came to be living on an abandoned sailboat and whether additional enforcement or criminal actions are warranted.
What Happened Next: Tacoma Police and Animal Control coordinated rescue and medical triage for the animals. Officials will continue follow-up care, licensing checks and interviews as part of the ongoing probe.
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