Terrified cat survives being trapped on boat a week with dead owner, Florida cops say

An unusual animal rescue played out on the Florida coast, where a terrified cat was found living on a boat with the body of its owner.

It happened in Stuart, about 110 miles north of Miami, and the cat refused to leave its home, even after the body was removed, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.

“It was a difficult task, but MCSO’s Animal Services Officers could not, and would not give up trying to save a cat left behind on (a) sailboat after his owner passed away onboard,” the sheriff’s office wrote in a June 10 Facebook post.

“Unfortunately, the man was deceased more than a week before his body was discovered. ... When detectives from Stuart Police Department removed the man’s body, they realized the terrified pet was unwilling to be taken out.”

The identity of the owner and details of how he died were not released. Photos show the man and his cat lived on the water in a shared cabin with an adjoining bunk.

Investigators did not reveal where the cat was hiding on the boat, but noted animal control officers Tabitha Queen and Shannon McGee slipped on protective Tyvek jump suits for the search. They also used face masks.

The gray cat was located after a brief search of the boat and put in a cage for transport, officials said. Details of its condition were not released.

Photos show it was quickly provided food and water after being safely confined.

“The cat was taken to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast where he will be treated for any medical issues. If no family takes possession of the animal, it will processed for adoption,” the sheriff’s office said.

A next-of-kin hold remains on the cat as the Humane Society works to see if a relative might adopt it, according to Sarah Fisher, communications manager for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

The cat is a neutered male and may be a senior, she said.

“We only did a basic exam, but if/when he becomes available for adoption, we will do a more detailed exam,” she said.

“He is shy, but doing very well considering his circumstances. He is snacking on food and being friendly to staff. His ‘Hold’ is up on the 19th, and if not claimed, then he will be processed and available for adoption very shortly after.”

This story was originally published June 12, 2023 at 9:05 AM with the headline "Terrified cat survives being trapped on boat a week with dead owner, Florida cops say."