Mama Cat Found Injured In Clothes Dryer

A 4-year-old mama cat was found injured today in a clothes drier at a Riverside apartment complex, and authorities want to know who’s responsible.

The feline was discovered early this morning in a laundry room at a building in the 3000 block of Watkins Drive, near UC Riverside, according to Riverside County Department of Animal Services spokesman John Welsh.

He said a resident opened a drier and found the gray tabby inside with duct tape over part of her face.

It’s unclear whether the cat was in the drier while it was running, but the feline’s injuries indicated she was, said Animal Services Sgt. Jason Sanders.

“This is an act of a coward,” Sanders said. “Who would do something like this to a defenseless animal?”

The cat, who showed signs of recently birthing a litter, suffered a punctured left eye and fractured tooth, according to Welsh.

Animal Services veterinary technician Eileen Sanders said the tabby is able to drink and eat.

“I can’t imagine what this poor thing must have felt going through that ordeal,” Sanders said. “Whoever did this is going to move up and harm other animals, or maybe people.”

She feared the mommy cat’s kittens were starving — “if they haven’t already been tortured.”

Welsh said Animal Services personnel looked around the apartment complex, but couldn’t find any trace of the kitties. A witness reported hearing a kitten meowing behind a locked garage, and Welsh said there were plans to search again once the tenant who uses it returns.

He said a kitten was found in the area a few hours later. Animal control officers weren’t sure whether it belonged to the injured feline, but when the two were introduced, “the little kitty cuddled right up.”

Animal control officers encouraged anyone who might be able to help with the investigation to call (951) 358-7387.

The cat is not available for adoption yet because of its condition. Welsh said anyone interested in adopting her in the future should e-mail the shelter at shelterinforivcocha.org.