Monumental effort saves 130 desperate cats

A New Jersey cat sanctuary has completed an unprecedented rescue mission for over 130 cats in crisis. As a world-renowned haven for vulnerable cats, Tabby’s Place is used to saving lives others had dismissed as “hopeless.” Yet not even Tabby’s Place had taken on a project like this.

Two indoor/outdoor locations were home to over ten dozen cats and kittens in various stages of sickness. Little ones were born into peril every week, and fragile seniors buckled beneath the weight of infection and overcrowding. Between their medical needs and their fearful temperaments, the cats were simply too daunting for anyone to help.

But Tabby’s Place is devoted to the cats “beyond hope.” The sanctuary held an emergency meeting, preparing its team for heartache and sleepless nights. In the end, staff and trained volunteer trappers and caregivers were unanimous. The hundred thirty cats deserved the same unconditional love as every Tabby’s Place cat.

Over the course of four months, Tabby’s Place rescued every cat on the properties, nestling them in adoptive homes, foster homes, safe habitats at their original colonies, and the sanctuary itself. Tabby’s Place focuses on the dignity and unique needs of each cat, caring for them as though they were the first, last, and best-loved cat in the world. Even those who tragically succumbed to illness were adored in their final days.

Although the monumental rescue is complete, the cats’ odyssey has just begun. Fifty-eight cats are settling into Tabby’s Place, a 12,000 square foot, cage free feline paradise. New arrivals like Shakira and Salami are learning that they are cherished and safe. Tabby’s Place has created three “socialization rooms” for nervous newcomers who could not be returned to their original location. Volunteers trained in feline behavior are assigned one-on-one to anxious cats.

As they settle into safety, the cats delight in their own little “kingdom” at Tabby’s Place. Having been through difficult days, survivors like Cobalt and Hydrogen are now inseparable. The cats can be found cuddled in a purring patchwork quilt, comforting each other as they learn how much they are loved.

Given the number of cats rescued in such a short period of time, and their ongoing medical and behavioral needs, Tabby’s Place is turning to our community for financial support.

Donors may give online, or by mailing checks made out to “Tabby’s Place” to 1100 US Highway 202; Ringoes, NJ 08551. Tabby’s Place is a registered 501(c)3 charity.

It’s been a historic summer of love, but autumn at Tabby’s Place is shaping up to be even sweeter.