An employee in Glendale arrived at work and soon began noticing a faint meowing coming through the walls of her office. Upon investigating the alley behind her workplace, she was shocked to discover a calico cat trapped in the narrow space between two cinderblock walls. It’s unknown how long the cat had been there, but we suspect she may have been trapped all night.

The concerned employee quickly called Pasadena Humane, and our Animal Control Officer rushed to the scene. Unfortunately, the space between the walls was so tight that our ACO was unable to free the cat. So he reached out to the Glendale Fire Department for assistance.

Once they arrived, the firefighters utilized an airbag to expand the space between the two walls. Gradually, centimeter by centimeter, the narrow corridor became slightly less narrow. And finally, the exhausted cat was free.

Our ACO immediately brought the cat to Pasadena Humane for emergency treatment in our ICU. She had severe hypothermia— and in fact, her body temperature was so low, the thermometer couldn’t even get a reading. She was also showing signs of dehydration. Our veterinary team wasted no time warming her up and giving her fluids. Although she was in rough shape, we were hopeful that she had gotten to us in time.

Although she had been through quite the ordeal, the little cat had a survivor’s spirit. By the next day, her temperature was back to normal and she was beginning to eat again. And after another day in our ICU, she had made a full recovery.

A huge thank you to the Glendale Fire Department Engine 27, Truck 21, and the Battalion Chief for all their help in rescuing this kitty. Their commitment to their community extends not only to the people of Glendale, but to the animals, too.

We are also incredibly grateful to the good Samaritan who heard the kitty’s meows and alerted us to her plight. Her quick action and compassion most likely saved this cat’s life. And in the best ending to this story, as soon as the little calico had recovered, the very same good Samaritan adopted her and took her home.