Cat injured seeking warmth on car engine

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Animal control officials are looking to find a home for Rudolph, a three-year-old black and white male domestic shorthair cat found severely injured on a car engine.

The cat was sleeping on top of the engine to stay warm in Brooklyn last week. Rudolph suffered severe injuries to his front and left hind legs when the car was started.

Animal Care & Control of NYC rescued Rudolph with the help of several good Samaritans. He was transported to an AC&C clinic where he received emergency veterinary care.

Rudolph's prognosis is good, but doctors are watching him closely to see if they can save his hind leg.

AC&C needs donations to pay for Rudolph's medical care and Rudolph is looking for an adoptive home.

Officials are also reminding people that during the cold weather months free roaming cats will often seek warmth by climbing up inside car engines.

"Without knowing the cat is on their engine a motorist starts the car and the moving parts of the engine cause serious injury and in some cases death to the cat," said Julie Bank, executive director of Animal Care & Control of NYC. "AC&C encourages all motorists to gently bang on the hood of their car before starting it so it gives the cat time to get out before the engine is started."

Banging on the car hood can prevent serious injuries to a cat that is seeking warmth and shelter on a car engine.

Cat owners should also keep their cat indoors during inclement weather. Animals can become hypothermic, meaning their body temperature can fall below normal levels, if they are left outside. In cold or bad weather, animals are much safer and happier indoors.

If you want to obtain more information about adopting Rudolph, donating to the AC&C's Special Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Fund or becoming an AC&C foster parent please visit, AC&C's website at www.nycacc.org.

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