Northland Miracle! Drifter the Cat Rescued After Eight Weeks Trapped in Minnesota Sewer
A cat named Drifter was rescued after spending eight weeks trapped in a sewer in Duluth, Minnesota, and is expected to make a full recovery. š #News #DuluthMN #Minnesota #Pets
DULUTH, MN – A tabby cat named Drifter is on the road to recovery after surviving nearly two months trapped in a sewer in Duluth, Minnesota. The three-year-old indoor cat, known for his adventurous tendencies, went missing on July 18 and was found by chance after children in the neighborhood heard faint meowing from a storm drain.
A Long Search Ends with a Miracle
Drifterās owners, Clifton Nesseth and Ashley Comstock, along with their 12-year-old daughter April, were devastated when their beloved cat disappeared. Despite extensive efforts to find him, including putting up posters and searching throughout the city, they had nearly lost hope. With no sign of Drifter, the family had begun preparing for the worst, even planning a small memorial.
However, things took a dramatic turn when some local children came to the family with news. They had heard a faint meow coming from a storm drain at a nearby construction site.
Desperate for answers, the family rushed to the site and began digging into the dirt and landscape fabric that covered the area. After some effort, they saw a small paw emerge, confirming that Drifter was still alive.
A Shocking Discovery
After being trapped for eight weeks, Drifter was finally pulled from the storm drain, much to the amazement of his family and gathered neighbors. The cat had lost significant weight during his time underground, dropping from 15 pounds to just over six. Despite his weakened state, he still wore his collar, making his identity unmistakable.
The family believes Drifter may have explored an opening at the construction site, which later became sealed off, leaving him trapped. During his time underground, itās likely he survived by hunting small animals and drinking water from the sewer. His rescue coincided with his family calling out for him earlier that day, which may have helped him find a way closer to the surface.
That night, Drifter spent his first evening back home resting comfortably with April, clearly relieved to be reunited with his family. A visit to the vet confirmed that Drifter is expected to make a full recovery, and he has already begun regaining weight. His enthusiasm for food, even in the form of fluids given via syringe, highlights his determined spirit.
The family originally found Drifter during a vacation in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, choosing the name because of his independent personality. After his recent adventure, his name feels more fitting than ever.
Editor’s note: Photos used for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual subject.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
