Kittens Rescued After Being Abandoned in Freezing Cold

Three sibling kittens found in Columbus, Ohio state park are recovering after being saved by compassionate bystanders.

Feb. 10, 2026 at 3:55am

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Three kittens were found abandoned in the freezing cold at a state park in Columbus, Ohio on Friday. A good Samaritan and a team working at the park helped rescue the kittens, including one stuck high up in a tree. The kittens were taken to the Fayette Regional Humane Society, where they are being treated for mild respiratory infections and are expected to recover. Two other abandoned kittens were found frozen to death nearby.

Why it matters

This rescue highlights the devastating consequences of abandoning animals, especially in extreme weather conditions. It also demonstrates the power of compassion and quick action by bystanders to save vulnerable creatures in distress.

The details

The three sibling kittens, named Oakland, Briar and Maple, were found at the base of a tree and one was clinging to a branch 25-30 feet in the air at Paint Creek State Park. A team working at the park helped rescue the kitten stuck in the tree before the Humane Society arrived. The other two kittens were taken to the Ross County Humane Society first, where they were kept warm and safe until the Fayette Humane Society could retrieve them. The kittens are now receiving treatment for mild respiratory infections at the Fayette Humane Society's Animal Care and Adoption Center.

  • On Friday, the kittens were found abandoned in the freezing cold at Paint Creek State Park in Columbus, Ohio.

The players

Fayette Regional Humane Society

The animal welfare organization that rescued the kittens and is providing them with medical care and shelter.

Ross County Humane Society

The animal shelter that temporarily housed two of the kittens until the Fayette Humane Society could retrieve them.

Good Samaritan

The individual who found the kittens at the base of a tree and alerted authorities.

Park Work Crew

The team working at Paint Creek State Park that helped rescue the kitten stuck high up in a tree.

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What they’re saying

“This rescue shows the power of compassion and quick action. It also highlights the devastating consequences of abandoning animals.”

— Fayette Regional Humane Society (Social media)

What’s next

It is unknown if or when the rescued kittens will be put up for adoption.

The takeaway

This heartwarming rescue serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion towards vulnerable animals, especially in extreme weather conditions. It also underscores the devastating impact of animal abandonment and the need for responsible pet ownership.