3-Month Old Kitten Survives Ocean Voyage from China

She may be the tiniest stowaway of all time, but she successfully completed a nearly 3,000-mile journey across the sea and will eventually be put up for adoption.

A 3-month-old kitten was discovered inside of a freight container Wednesday that had just arrived from an ocean journey that began in Shanghai, China.

The County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) was contacted by the manager of the business, located on the 19500 block of Wilmington Avenue in the unincorporated area of Compton, that had received the container.  

The orange and white male kitten, described as a Domestic Short Haired, is in guarded condition at Carson Animal Care Center’s medical unit.

“It is incredible that this kitten could survive the almost 2,700 mile journey  by sea without food or water,” said Marcia Mayeda, DACC’s Director.

“She ate a good meal last night and  slept soundly,” Mayeda stated. DACC veterinary staff reported that the kitten woke up this morning “bright, alert, and responsive,” all very promising signs for a kitten who was clinging to life just 24 hours ago. 

Staff and volunteers have named her “Ni Hao,” pronounced Nee How, which translates to “hello.”  

Not Out of the Woods Just Yet

Ni Hao is under quarantine and being monitored, a standard protocol for animals entering the United States from other countries. Due to the young age of the kitten, it is highly unlikely that he has received any vaccinations thus far.  

“We will continue to provide the best care for Ni Hao, eventually looking for a suitable foster home then finally a permanent family to call his own,” Mayeda said.

Those interested in potentially adopting Ni Hao should  e-mail carson@animalcare.lacounty.gov or call (310) 527-5146.