Rescue isn’t always Happy

Rescue isn’t always an uplifting experience. On Saturday, I got a call to help with a feral cat who has been attacked by a raccoon.  This cat was badly injured, scared, and in pain. 

A nice lady feeds a few ferals.  Twelve years ago, Spay Worcester was able to TNR her small colony.   Since then, the cats have lived their lives in peace and comfort.  But, on Saturday morning, “Ring” was attacked by a raccoon.  The caretaker was able to beat the raccoon off of the cat with a broom.  The cat retreated to a corner on the second floor porch.

It was late afternoon by the time I was involved with the situation.  I found Ring growling in the same corner.  She was fearful and in pain.  I was planning on pushing her into a transfer cage.  But, when I approached her, she managed to hobble downstairs to the first floor porch.  She found a good hiding place behind various barrels and gardening tools. 

I almost got her into the cage, but I was unable to close the door in time.  She wiggled further into the stacks of barrels and tools. 

After moving the materials, I was able to get the transfer cage in position.  I could see the grey fur.  I reached my gloved hand into the corner.  And…I  touched the raccoon!!!

Ring and the raccoon were side by side!

I wedged a large sheet of cardboard in between the two animals.  I was able to position the cage near the cat.  By wiggling the trap around his backside and using a mop handle to guide her, I was able to get her into the trap and secure the door.

Now, here’s the dilemma.  Ring is a feral cat.  She does not allow human contact.  She was attacked by a raccoon and sustained injuries.  These injuries require medical attention.

Attacks by raccoons are a cause for concern.  It may be a case of a mother raccoon defending her babies.  Or, it could be rabies. 

Plus, even if rabies were not a concern, Ring is a feral animal, and she is elderly.  The trauma of treatment and holding for quarantine would be a challenge. 

The most humane thing to do in this case, is also one of the most difficult – euthanasia. 

The caretaker and I consulted with another rescuer via phone.  After a lengthy discussion, we agreed that the caretaker would take Ring to Tufts.