One by one, the cats were trapped and removed from their homes. The cats—and generations of cats before them—had spent their entire lives on San Nicolas Island. Now it was time to leave the island forever.

San Nicolas Island, about 60 miles off the coast of California, is owned by the U.S. Navy. A population of feral (untamed) cats has lived on the island for more than 50 years. The cats belonged to no one. To survive, they hunted small animals such as birds, lizards, and other native animals.

Unfortunately, some of the animals the cats hunted were endangered and threatened species. In order to protect these animals, federal and state agencies planned to euthanize the cats (humanely put them to death). The Humane Society of the United States and The Fund for Animals decided there had to be a better way.

Flying High

The cats were trapped, and Navy personnel cared for them until they were flown to the mainland. Staff from The HSUS greeted the cats' plane and brought them to their new home at The Fund for Animals Wildlife Center in Ramona, California. "After many months of hard work, it was wonderful to see the planes full of cats land on that runway," said Betsy McFarland, senior director of companion animals for The HSUS. "These beautiful animals deserve the opportunity to live  a full and happy life. We're thrilled to provide them a wonderful new home at our sanctuary."

The cats received thorough checkups, vaccinations, and any necessary treatment. They were also spayed or neutered. Never having had close contact with people, the cats took time to adjust to their new home. With kindness and patience, sanctuary staff brought them from hissing and growling to purring and relaxing.

Life is Good

Thanks to the generosity of DoGreatGood.com, the cats were introduced in September to a large new habitat built just for them. Today, the cats are learning to climb trees, which were rare on San Nicolas Island. They're once again playing and relaxing in a place similar to their island home. Only now they have protection. They have reliable meals, toys, special treats, and human kindness—all things every cat deserves.