In a remarkable rescue effort, Tabby’s Place, a renowned cat sanctuary located in East Amwell, has taken in 130 cats from dire hoarding situations in Readington and Kingwood. The operation, led by Danielle Rice, the director of operations at Tabby’s Place, highlights the urgent need for community support as the sanctuary works to rehabilitate and rehome these animals.
Among the rescued felines is Salami, an eight-year-old cat who was discovered wedged in a six-inch crevice between a ceiling and kitchen cabinetry. Initially appearing more like a clump of ashy dust than a cat, Salami has since revealed his vibrant personality in his temporary sanctuary. “He’s a total love bug,” Rice noted, adding that Salami enjoys mingling during meetings and rolling around on tables, bringing joy to staff and volunteers alike.
The recent rescue marks the largest influx of cats in such a short period for Tabby’s Place, accounting for more than a third of the total number of cats they rescued throughout 2023. The sanctuary, recognized as a haven for special-needs cats, incurred substantial costs—tens of thousands of dollars—related to veterinary care, staffing, and the logistics of rescuing the cats.
Tabby’s Place relies heavily on the support of its 400 volunteers, who assist with feeding, cleaning, and caring for the cats. To help sustain the care of these rescued animals, Tabby’s Place is encouraging donations. Contributions can be made through their website, tabbysplace.org, or by mailing checks to their location at 1100 US Highway 202, Ringoes, NJ 08551.
Among the many cats in need, 18 are currently available for adoption, with more expected to join them once they complete their medical treatments. In May, a humane law enforcement officer alerted Tabby’s Place to a dire situation involving 20 cats living inside a Readington home and 18 more outdoors. As the rescue efforts unfolded, an additional 47 cats were discovered hidden in the same home, many suffering from upper respiratory infections and malnutrition.
Simultaneously, a similar situation arose in Kingwood, where 27 fixed cats were found indoors, alongside 61 unfixed and sick cats living outside. Rice emphasized that the owners in these cases were not apathetic but rather found themselves overwhelmed and were cooperative in ensuring the cats received the help they needed. “These people wanted what was best for the animals,” she explained, noting their bravery in allowing strangers into their homes during such challenging times.
As of now, 58 cats are still under care at Tabby’s Place, receiving treatment or undergoing socialization. The sanctuary has converted several rooms into cat-friendly spaces, allowing the felines to roam freely rather than be confined to cages.
Among the many personalities at the sanctuary are Bello, an 11-year-old cat who adores attention and is described as “sunshine on four jaunty legs,” and Shakira, a young mother who recently gave birth to four healthy kittens. Shakira has also nurtured an orphan kitten, Camila, until she was adopted.
Two inseparable cats, Cobalt and Hydrogen, are learning to trust and love in their new environment, providing comfort to one another as they await adoption.
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