Published 2 days ago • loading... • Updated 2 days ago
Kitten rescued from glue trap spurs warning by animal welfare officials
The 6-week-old kitten is recovering with foster care and daily glue removal baths as officials warn sticky traps can harm other animals.
A 6-week-old kitten named Sticky is recovering at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society after nearly dying when she became trapped on a sticky rat trap in Anaheim, prompting animal welfare officials to warn against using the devices.
Hearing rustling sounds, a good Samaritan discovered the kitten, who was about 4 weeks old and unable to escape as movement caused her to become more firmly stuck to the trap.
Orange County Animal Care staff initially freed the kitten using chemicals to remove glue, then the Rancho Coastal Humane Society assumed her care. Sticky now receives daily mineral oil baths to dissolve remaining residue.
Shelter Manager Lilly Thacker decided to foster the kitten after meeting her. "I fell in love right away," Thacker said, and she is now considering adopting Sticky permanently.
Experts warn that glue traps are inhumane and dangerous, as predatory birds often become trapped while targeting stuck prey. Staff suggests using humane alternatives like rat trap cages instead.