SANDSTONE, Minn. — Eat your heart out, Larry — the newest cat dwelling at Sandstone, Minnesota's Wildcat Sanctuary could give 10 Downing Street a run for its money.
A statement released by the organization Tuesday said more than 50 rescued exotic cats are now living out their feline fantasies inside the sanctuary's new Catio Town.
“This is truly the first of its kind for wild/domestic hybrid cats," said Executive Director Tammy Thies. "Catio Town will provide a forever home to current and future small and hybrid cats who can’t otherwise be rehomed due to legalities and unwanted behaviors."
The exotic hybrids are a crossbreed between domestic and wild cats and are commonly sold for thousands, according to the rescue. The statement goes on to say this particular breed has grown in popularity, but they're often surrendered or set free by their owners when they discover the breed's "unwanted behaviors and poor litter box habits."
Not The Wildcat Sanctuary, though.
The kitty crew leaned all the way into embracing the sometimes misunderstood cats, erecting a facility that includes several heated, indoor rooms — with outdoor access! — furnished skywalks, water fountains and cat grass beds, among other opulent options.
“For the cats who are lucky to come to the Sanctuary, they’re given the life and care they deserve," Thies said. "We provide much-needed vet care, dynamic habitats, companionship with their own kind, and ultimately, peace.”
The sanctuary said each room is also decked out in individualized themes, including an "Under the Sea" room with walls of fish and turtle shelves for cats to perch; and a "Log Cabin" room with plaid accessories and a faux fireplace.
“Our goal is a better life for the cats we rescue, but we also wanted a unique way to bring awareness to the Small Cat Crisis on social media," Thies said. "Who wouldn’t want to tune in to see rescued cats, who were once in threat of euthanasia, now living their best lives here in Catio Town?”
The woman has a point.
If you're interested in learning more about the sanctuary, its residents or their fancy new digs in Catio Town, visit the organization's website.
