Massachusetts Resident Spots Helpless Cat Running Out Of Strength While Trapped In Drain Grate
Curiosity may be part of a cat’s charm, but sometimes it leads them straight into trouble. And unlike dogs, cats don’t always recognize danger until it’s too late.
That’s exactly what happened to a cat named Calvin. One morning, around 7:30, a resident noticed something that made them stop in their tracks: a cat’s head poking out from a drain near their driveway.
Realizing the situation wasn’t right, they didn’t hesitate to call for help, setting off a rescue that Calvin desperately needed.
Soon after the call, a team of police officers, highway workers, and animal control officer Lisa White gathered on Harbor Road to help free Calvin.
At first, the frightened cat tried to squeeze out of the narrow opening on his own, but his efforts failed, leaving him only able to cry softly while his rescuers searched for a safe solution.
Realizing that forcing him out would cause more harm, the group devised a careful plan. They lifted the heavy metal grate with Calvin still inside and transported both him and the grate to the Mass-RI Veterinary ER.
Lisa secured Calvin in the backseat and drove with extra care, focused on keeping him safe instead of rushing.
By the time they reached the animal hospital, the veterinary team was ready and waiting in the parking lot. Calvin was quickly sedated so they could begin the delicate procedure to free him.
It was a nerve-wracking moment, and they weren’t sure what would happen next, as Lisa shared in an interview:
“We were told, ‘This doesn’t always go well. Keep your fingers crossed.’”
Thankfully, the rescue went smoothly. Using soap and other lubricants, the vets were able to carefully free Calvin from the metal grate.
Once out, he was given a thorough examination, and they estimated his age to be around one or two years old.
Although he had likely been cold, worn out, and scratched from his struggle to escape, Calvin miraculously avoided any serious injuries.
Still, he wasn’t exactly thrilled about his temporary stay at the Swansea Animal Shelter and showed his grumpy side..
Everything changed the following day, though, when his owner arrived to bring him home. The moment he saw his mom, Calvin’s mood shifted instantly, and his joy was impossible to miss.
In the end, no one can say for sure how Calvin found himself trapped in the drain. Lisa suspects he may have wandered in from the nearby beach, perhaps after being chased or simply losing his way.
On top of that, she learned from Calvin’s owner that he has a mischievous side, as she mentioned:
“I feel like it won’t be the last time we see him. He’s one of those cats who will probably use up all of his nine lives.”
Fortunately, Calvin’s tale had a happy ending, made possible by the quick response of the resident, police, highway crew, and animal control.
His adventurous spirit may be endearing, but one can only hope he picked up a few lessons from this ordeal.
With any luck, his future escapades will be safer – and definitely not involve drains again!





