Cat rescued from San Mateo Bridge now available for adoption

A cat rescued from inside an AT&T utility box in the middle of San Mateo Bridge last month is now available for adoption, according to the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA).

On March 17, an AT&T technician dispatched to the bridge for minor repairs spotted the cat hiding in the utility box at one of the vehicle pullouts in the middle of the bridge, said Buffy Martin Tarbox, PHS/SPCA spokesperson. PHS/SPCA rescue were called to the scene.

“PHS/SPCA Animal Rescue & Control Officer Justin Reese blocked the access point close to the highway to prohibit the cat from running into the traffic on the bridge,” officials said. “Officer Reese was then able to reach the cat’s hiding spot and grasp the feline bringing him to safety.”

The cat was brought for medical evaluation to PHS/SPCA’s Coyote Point shelter and found to have some minor abrasions, but was overall in good condition.

Tarbox believes it’s unlikely the cat walked halfway across the bridge.

“The cat was suffering from some road rash, so we suspect he had been hiding or traveling in a vehicle driving across the bridge, and somehow exited the car or was forced out of the car, then scrambled to the utility box and hid, having no other place to go,” Tarbox said.

The cat, which lacked identification and wasn’t microchipped, was provided the name Raisin and is now available for adoption at PHS/SPCA.

“Raisin is a very fortunate cat indeed and will make a wonderful new addition to a family or individual. He’s now microchipped and neutered. His adoption fee is $80,” said Tarbox.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, PHS/SPCA is open for adoptions by appointment only. Those interested in meeting Raisin need to call 650-340-7022 to schedule an appointment.

“Raisin is just one of more than 200 animals PHS/SPCA has helped since San Mateo County instituted the shelter-in-place order, which is now in effect statewide,” the organization said.

Photos are courtesy of PHS/SPCA