Miracle kitty survives fall off cliff
On April 29, a heartbreaking fall at Bryce Canyon claimed the lives of two people, leaving a ripple of sorrow in its wake. The national park isn’t far from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and when the news broke, our hearts went out to the families, friends, and all those affected by the tragic loss. Then, amid the tragedy, a quiet miracle emerged: A 12-year-old cat, now named Mirage, somehow survived the fall. She was found beside the victims in a soft-sided carrier, covered in dirt and mud — shaken, but alive.
Emergency care for an injured cat
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office reached out to Best Friends for help, and Mirage was soon in safe hands at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. She arrived sore and matted, with fractured ribs and a story only she knows. Even so, she greeted the world with quiet grace — calm, gentle, and affectionate. She’s eating and drinking on her own, and with steady attention from the veterinary team, she’s getting the care she needs. She’s expected to make a full recovery.
“She’s a very sweet girl and doing very well,” says Judah Battista, Best Friends chief Sanctuary officer. “It’s really remarkable.”
[Faces of No-Kill: Cat gains doting family after accident]
Whatever Mirage has endured, her journey now is one of comfort and care. She's wrapped in warmth, surrounded by calm voices and caring hearts. For now, she rests. And heals.
Best Friends is working closely with local authorities to learn whether any extended family members may wish to bring Mirage home. If not, a new home will be found for her when the time is right. Until then, she’ll stay tucked into the safe, quiet heart of the Sanctuary.
Let's make every shelter and every community no-kill in 2025
Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill in 2025. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets.
Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.
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