A newly neutered cat named George made an incredible journey back to his Florida home after escaping from a veterinary facility, walking nearly three miles over several days—despite still being under the effects of anesthesia.
The daring escape took place at SPCA Florida, where George had been taken for a routine procedure. According to local reports from Fox 13 Tampa Bay, George managed to break out of his cage, scale a fence, and flee into nearby woods shortly after his surgery. His owner, Bob Beasock, was left stunned.
“He had to go through two or three subdivisions, around lakes, and cross several roads,” Beasock said. “If it had been me, I’d have called an Uber. But George didn’t have that option.”
Despite his sedation, George relied on instinct and an extraordinary sense of direction. Certified cat behaviorist Joey Lusvardi explained that cats are equipped to find their way home using scent, visual landmarks, and possibly even the Earth’s magnetic field.
SPCA staff tried to catch him, but George was too quick. Randa Richter, Director of Humane Programs and Public Media at SPCA Florida, said, “Our staff were literally hoisting each other over fences trying to catch him, but he outran everyone—even with the ‘silly drugs’ still in his system.”
Beasock described the experience as heartbreaking. “I was distraught,” he told the station. “He needed a human touch—and that’s what he got once he made it home.”
After several days missing, George finally reappeared at his home, surprising and delighting his owner. The brave feline had crossed multiple neighborhoods and busy roads, showing both determination and resilience.
Experts say cats are often underestimated when it comes to their attachment to humans and their homing ability. “Contrary to popular belief, cats are very attached to us,” said Lusvardi. “They will want to find their way back home.”
George is now safely back with his family and recovering well from his procedure. It remains unclear whether he suffered any medical complications during his escape, but for now, he’s resting where he belongs.
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