Jackson, NJ – A feral kitten that spent the summer roaming backyards in Jackson has finally found a permanent home after being rescued and cared for by local animal groups.
The young cat, later named Willow, was first discovered when she wandered into a humane trap set by a homeowner who had been trying to catch a raccoon rummaging through trash cans. Unlike typical shelter cats, Willow resisted indoor life, showing a strong preference for the outdoors where she could roam freely.
Staff at the Ocean County Northern Animal Shelter collaborated with the Jersey Shore Animal Foundation to secure a safe placement for Willow in a barn or farm setting, where she will be able to live as an outdoor cat while still receiving care.
Shelter volunteers said cats like Willow arrive from time to time and require unique solutions outside of traditional adoptions.
Phil Stilton, the editor of Shore News Network, said that when Willow was found, he was shocked.
“I thought we captured the raccoon, until I got closer and realized it was the tiny kitten on our ring doorbell cam each night for the past few weeks,” he said. “Thanks to the folks over at the shelter, they took her in, cleaned her up, and found her a safe new home. Commissioner Sadeghi, who oversees the shelter, is doing a fantastic job. We would have kept her ourselves, but we already have three cats.”
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Stilton said the area has a few feral cats, but many of them meet their demise on East Veterans Highway nearby.
“Glad we were able to save this one,” he said. “Unfortunately, they all usually end up trying to cross the highway at some point.”
As for the raccoon ravaging the garbage cans, it stopped coming shortly after and hasn’t been seen again.
One little trap led Willow from the backyard to a new beginning.
The Ocean County Animal Shelter has plenty of kittens and cats for adoption at this time, all looking for a forever home.