Healing The 'Caged Cats,' And Helping Them Find Homes

After Port Washington resident Paul Ferguson learned that nearly 70 caged cats were discovered at , he headed there on Wednesday to find out if Snowflake was among them. Snowflake, a family pet, had been missing since December. 

At first, Ferguson thought he had finally reunited with Snowflake, but that proved not to be the case.

Ferguson's wife Michele provided some details.

“He said at first he was 95 percent sure it was [Snowflake], and she even seemed to recognize our dog, who went with him, but there were minute differences,” Michele Ferguson said about her husband’s visit. “He left the cat there in case her actual owner does come back for her.”

And while Paul Ferguson returned home without identifying Snowflake, he gave high marks to the rescue effort.

“The cats and kittens are all safe,” Ferguson wrote in the . “They have been identified by number tags and separated by sex. They are, now at least, all well fed….The staff at the preserve are tender and caring and taking great care of the cats now.”

According to a press release issued by , the animals, 67 in total, were found on the locked grounds of the former Harry F. Guggenheim estate, known as “Falaise.” 

Law enforcement officials have not returned request for comment, but according to CBS 2, Nassau County Assistant District Attorney Jed Painter revealed that the DA’s office knows who is responsible for caging the animals and that these individuals may face criminal charges.

Friends of Sands Point Preserve board members and staff have been tending to the cats since Tuesday. Their effort has also included meeting with pet owners like Ferguson looking for their missing pets. Several have positively identified their pets.

and the Animal Lovers’ League of Glen Cove, have set up an impromptu triage space in the original cow barn on the estate, enabling each animal to be thoroughly examined and evaluated – including blood testing- and given proper treatment by veterinary professionals. Many of the animals were transferred to the agencies for further treatment, including spaying, neutering, and vaccinations. 

Those interested in adopting or making a donation may contact the Animal Lovers’ League of Glen Cove at 516-676-5913 – photos of the cats are on their website – or North Shore Animal League at 516-883-7575. The agencies are in need supplies, including cash donations, animal food, towels and blankets. 

In addition, on Sunday, from 3-4:30 p.m., some of the healthy cats will be available for viewing at the Sands Point Preserve. Call in advance (516-571-7901) to identify your pet, or if you are interested in adopting.

Many of the animals are recovering well, according to the Friends of Sands Point Preserve spokeswoman.

Read from Friends of Sands Point Preserve.