‘A miracle’: Senior cat survives nearly 400-foot fall in Bryce Canyon

KANAB, Utah (ABC4) — A senior cat is now recovering after falling nearly 400 feet in Bryce Canyon National Park earlier this week.

According to Best Friends Animal Society, the cat was with two tourists at the park who reportedly fell after climbing over a railing at Inspiration Point on April 29. The two people, identified as Matthew Nannen and Bailee Crane, died at the scene.

Now going by Mirage, the cat was found in a black soft-sided carrier, which was dirty and torn, but seemed to have handled the fall fairly well.

“Mirage is a miracle cat in that she survived a tragic fall in Bryce Canyon,” Judah Battista, the chief sanctuary officer for Best Friends Animal Society, told ABC4.com.

Mirage is a female tabby who is estimated to be 12 years old. She was brought to Pawz Dogs boarding facility in Panguitch. The next day, Garfield County officials contacted Best Friends for their help.

Mirage was taken by veterinary staff to Best Friends in Kanab, which is the headquarters for the national animal welfare organization and the largest companion animal sanctuary in the U.S.

Best Friends said that Mirage was matted and a bit sore, but was friendly when being examined. Battista said that the cat’s bloodwork came back normal, and she is eating and drinking normally. He said that her X-rays show she has a couple of fractured ribs and has broken two of her canine teeth.

“Considering the nature of her fall, she’s in remarkably good shape,” he said.

Battista shared that they are working on getting in contact with the extended family of those who passed in the fall before considering putting her up for adoption.

“Our hearts go out to the family,” he said. “While we’re we’re very proud to be able to provide her a safe and caring environment to recuperate while all of the things that needed to get sorted out are getting sorted out, we’re able to do this because of the support of the public, so we want to share our appreciation as well.”

The fall is still being investigated, and anyone with information about the incident is being asked to contact Garfield County Sheriff’s Detectives at 435-676-1126.