He was abandoned on a street in Brooklyn with nothing but a litterbox and some random kitty supplies — but now Nostrand the cat literally has the support from people all over the world who want to help.
“We are completely overwhelmed by the response to Nostrand’s story,” reads a message on the Fat Cat Facebook page which was posted on June 3. “Offers to adopt have come in from all over the USA, from Canada, and even from Brazil! Many offers have also come in from local people. As we take time to go through all the wonderful applications, please be assured that we will make sure Nostrand finds the best possible home right here in Brooklyn.”Last month, a photo of the abandoned feline standing beside his litterbox and meowing was posted on the rescue’s page with a message that stated: “Street sweeper scared him off. Please be on the lookout, if spotted please contact brooklynfatcats@gmail.com. If anyone can foster this cat, once he is caught, we will find a home.” The image obviously broke hearts near and far.
On May 29, Nostrand was scooped up by a local trap and release advocate who later found him in her backyard. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals heard about his story and is doing something to help.
Since abandoning an animal is a mere misdemeanor in New York, carrying a sentence of up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, the animal welfare group is now offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who are responsible for the crime, PETA said in a statement.
“Not only does abandoning a confused, terrified cat with his litterbox on the street show an appalling disregard for others’ suffering, it’s also cause for arrest in New York,” stated PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA reminds everyone that cats are ill-equipped to survive on the streets and should always be kept indoors to protect them from horrible injury, disease, and abuse.”
“Nostrand will definitely find a forever home, despite his cruel tale. “Please consider adopting or fostering a cat from your local rescue so that they can help another,” Fat Cat rescue said on their Facebook page. “And please be assured that Nostrand is safe and in good hands now. We will keep you all updated.”
