As pet parents, we know our furry friends have a way of finding us when we least expect it. For one veterinarian, a quick stop at a fast-food restaurant turned into a life-changing moment for a tiny kitten. This heartwarming story of compassion and quick thinking is a reminder of the magic of the “cat distribution system” and the difference one person can make.
A Surprising Discovery in Indianapolis
Dr. Matt McGlasson, a feline expert and veterinarian, shared a touching moment on his Instagram (@dr.mattmcglasson) in August 2025. While stopping at a Panda Express in Indianapolis, he heard faint, crying meows coming from the bathroom.
Following the sound, he found a tiny black kitten tucked behind the toilet, looking up at him with hopeful eyes. “What am I supposed to do?” he wondered aloud in the video, stunned by the unexpected find.
The kitten, likely abandoned just before Dr. McGlasson’s arrival due to the public nature of the bathroom, needed immediate help. As a veterinarian, he didn’t hesitate. He gently picked up the kitten and began planning her future, determined to ensure she was safe and cared for.
A Team Effort to Save a Life
Knowing the kitten needed a home, Dr. McGlasson learned that a Panda Express employee had been wanting a kitten but wasn’t prepared with supplies. Still on her shift, she couldn’t take the kitten immediately. Dr. McGlasson stepped up, heading to PetSmart to purchase essentials like food, litter, and water bowls, which he gifted to the employee to help her get started.
With no carrier available, the kitten was tucked into a Panda Express to-go box for safekeeping. The Instagram video, which has racked up over 622,000 views and 78,000 likes, ends with Dr. McGlasson saying a sweet goodbye to the kitten, calling her lucky for being found. The employee happily took her new furry friend home, ready to give her a loving forever home.
Why This Story Touches Hearts
The internet was moved by Dr. McGlasson’s kindness, with viewers expressing both heartbreak over the kitten’s abandonment and relief at her rescue. “I love that you went and bought the basic supplies for them. Such a kind soul,” one commenter wrote. Another added, “That was so kind of you to help with a little starter pack.” Fans even suggested adorable names like Panda, Lo Mein, and Take Out, celebrating the kitten’s fast-food rescue story.
This moment highlights the unpredictable beauty of the “cat distribution system,” where cats seem to find their humans in the most unexpected places. It also showcases the compassion of pet lovers like Dr. McGlasson, who went above and beyond to ensure a tiny kitten’s safety.
What to Do If You Find an Abandoned Kitten
Finding a stray kitten can be overwhelming, but here are practical steps to help:
- Check for Immediate Needs: Ensure the kitten is safe, warm, and hydrated. If they’re very young, they may need urgent care.
- Look for Identification: Check for a collar, tags, or a microchip (a vet or shelter can scan for one).
- Contact Local Shelters: Report the found kitten to shelters like IndyHumane or Indianapolis Animal Care Services to check for lost pet reports.
- Provide Temporary Care: If you can’t keep the kitten, reach out to local rescues or foster networks for support.
- Spread the Word: Post on platforms like 24Petconnect.com or local social media groups to reunite the kitten with its owner or find a new home.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
Dr. McGlasson’s story reminds us that kindness can change a life—feline or human. If you encounter a stray kitten, act with compassion and connect with local resources to ensure they find a loving home. Every pet deserves a chance at a happy ending, and this tiny kitten’s rescue proves that even a fast-food bathroom can be the start of a beautiful new chapter.
FAQ
What should I do if I find an abandoned kitten?
Ensure the kitten is safe and warm, check for identification, and contact local shelters or veterinarians. Provide temporary care and use platforms like 24Petconnect.com to find their owner or a new home.
Why are kittens abandoned in public places?
Kittens may be abandoned due to owners’ inability to care for them, accidental separation, or neglect. Public places like bathrooms are sometimes chosen for visibility, hoping someone will rescue the animal.
How can I help stray animals in my community?
Support local shelters like IndyHumane, volunteer as a foster, or donate supplies. Report stray animals to services like Indianapolis Animal Care Services to ensure they get proper care.
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