Drifter the cat safely rescued after 8 weeks stuck in a sewer

In Duluth, Minnesota, a cat named Drifter found himself in a unique adventure of being trapped in a sewer for almost eight weeks. Despite being an indoor cat with a desire to explore the outdoors, the 3-year-old tabby went missing from his home, leading his owners, Clifton Nesseth and Ashley Comstock, on a frantic search that seemed fruitless until a heartwarming discovery. The family, including their daughter April Dressel, had put up posters and scoured the city to no avail, preparing for a somber memorial for Drifter until neighborhood kids reported hearing meowing near a construction site storm drain.

Upon investigation, the family unearthed Drifter from the sewer, with a paw first appearing through the fabric, followed by his skinny frame. A neighbor, Dahlia Boberg, captured the emotional reunion on video, showcasing the cat’s miraculous survival story. Drifter, who still wore his collar, had lost a significant amount of weight during his underground ordeal, going from 15 pounds to 6 1/2 pounds.

Nesseth and Comstock speculated that Drifter accidentally got sealed in a hole and had been surviving beneath the surface by scavenging for food and water, potentially mice and sewer water. The family believes that Drifter responded to April’s calls from above through the sewer pipes, guiding them to his location. After being rescued, Drifter spent a comforting night with April, showing signs of recovery and an appetite, much to his family’s relief.

Drifter, chosen for his independent nature when the family found him during a vacation in Wisconsin, now continues to regain his lost weight under the care of his dedicated owners and veterinarian. The cat’s resilient spirit and love for food bring hope for a full recovery and a return to his adventurous feline life.