A cat stuck in a palm tree in a downtown Las Vegas neighborhood has become the focus of growing concern among residents.
On Friday morning, Adrielle Wechsler awoke to the loud sounds of meowing coming from a neighbor’s palm tree. Initially, she wasn’t overly worried, knowing that cats are generally agile climbers. However, by Saturday, after hearing the cries persist, she contacted the City of Las Vegas Animal Protection Services for help.
In the following days, Wechsler, along with other concerned neighbors, worked alongside Animal Protection Services and fire department personnel to try to assist the trapped cat. Despite their efforts, as of Wednesday evening, the cat remained stuck in the tree.
“I called animal control, and they said ‘there’s nothing they can do,’” Wechsler explained. “So, on the third day, when it was still up there, I called again and got the same response. They can’t help.”
The palm tree, which stands about 30 feet tall, is located in a residential backyard, making access difficult. Officials also stated that the tree’s instability prevented them from using a ladder to reach the cat.
Wechsler believes the cat is likely a stray, noting that the area has a significant number of homeless animals. “It’s pretty vocal… constant noise,” she added.
To help the cat, Wechsler and her neighbor, Dina Arias, have been hoisting a small bucket containing sardines, dry cat food, and water into the tree. Other neighbors with landscaping experience attempted a ladder rescue on Wednesday night but were unsuccessful as the cat kept running away.
“We’re not trained, we’re not arborists,” Wechsler said.
Animal Protection Services suggested that the residents contact a professional palm tree company for a rescue, but warned them that the expense would have to be covered by the community members themselves.
Despite the setbacks, several neighbors have vowed to continue their attempts to rescue the cat.
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