A cat named Mishka, who recently became the subject of an intense six-day rescue effort after being trapped between two commercial sheds at Wingfield, is now safe and searching for a new home. Mishka’s ordeal began on Friday, 30 August, when renovations at her owner’s home drove her to seek refuge in a narrow 15-metre-deep gap between two large sheds.
Despite efforts involving audio of cat noises and a food-laden trap, Mishka moved deeper into the chasm, prompting concerns for her survival. The RSPCA South Australia team, comprised of seven officers and volunteers, responded by delivering food and water through a makeshift system of pipes and planks to sustain her.
Access constraints posed an additional challenge, according to Nalika van Loenen, RSPCA SA Rescue Team Leader. “The location was secured, and obtaining permission to operate on the property complicated our efforts,” van Loenen explained. At one point, assistance from the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) was sought, though the plan to cut through a shed wall was ultimately vetoed by the property owners.
The situation took a turn on Monday, 2 September, when Mishka appeared to suffer from what van Loenen feared was a seizure. “She fell backwards and was unresponsive for a few minutes… we actually thought she’d died,” said van Loenen. However, Mishka revived and by Wednesday, 4 September, had moved close enough to the entrance of the gap to be coaxed out with gourmet cat food.
Upon her rescue, Mishka was taken to the RSPCA SA’s Animal Care Centre at O’Halloran Hill, where she underwent a thorough veterinary examination. Remarkably, she emerged from her harrowing experience largely unharmed but needing dental attention. After receiving the necessary care, including dental work, Mishka, who is fully vaccinated and desexed, was deemed ready for a new home.
Mishka’s owners, who had only recently adopted her after her previous owner passed away, have surrendered her to the RSPCA. They felt that finding her a quieter home would be more suitable for her needs. Van Loenen commented on Mishka’s disposition and readiness for a new family. “This really beautiful, super-friendly cat needs is a quiet home where she can fully relax, feel safe and receive lots of loving attention,” she said.
Mishka is now among approximately 80 animals available for adoption at RSPCA SA, which is currently offering these adoptions for half the usual fee. This special price reduction has been made possible by a generous donation from a long-time supporter. Prospective pet owners have until this Sunday to take advantage of this offer and can view all available animals online at rspcasa.org.au/adopt. This initiative aims to ensure that Mishka and many other animals find the loving homes they deserve.
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