Texas kitten rescued from engine, named after hero mechanic

LUBBOCK, Texas — It was a typical, noisy afternoon at Scott’s Car Care until a meow sounded through the sound of blaring stereos and clanking tools.

Mechanic Felix Bryand was working when the Rankin family pulled into the shop, desperate for help. Jennifer Rankin said they’d already tried four or five places after realizing a kitten was trapped somewhere in their SUV.

“It was the hottest day we’d had, 106 degrees, and we just weren’t getting much help,” Rankin said.

Bryand didn’t hesitate. He put down his tools and followed the tiny cries for help.

“We had a hard time locating the cat,” Bryand said. “Eventually, we had to remove some parts from the corner of the engine. But we got it done, and that was a good thing.”

After nearly an hour of careful work, the team freed the kitten from under the hood. Despite the labor, the shop refused to charge the family.

“I tried to pay him,” Rankin said. “They wouldn’t take anything.”

The Rankins immediately brought the kitten to Hub City Vet for a checkup. Staff there say it’s rare to see such a happy outcome.

“Many times, we hear of tragic stories involving kittens under hoods, with belts and motors,” said a spokesperson for the clinic. “But this is wonderful.”

Initially, the Rankins thought they’d foster the kitten, especially since they already have other pets. However, the cat quickly became an integral part of the family.

“When one day became two, we realized we had another cat,” Rankin said.

And her name? Of course, it’s Felix, in honor of the mechanic who saved her life.

Adding to her uniqueness, veterinarians say only about 20% of orange tabby cats are female, making this rescue all the more special.