Barbie the cat and kittens rescued from 45°C Pimlico boiler room

A mother cat named Barbie and her three kittens were rescued from a boiler room in Pimlico where temperatures reached 45°C. Westminster City Council’s animal warden carried out the rescue after residents in a residential block reported persistent meowing coming from the building’s boiler room.

The feline family was found hidden behind the boilers, where the extreme heat and cramped conditions made the rescue difficult. Despite the harsh environment, Barbie had kept her kittens alive. The council took the cats to Blue Cross Animal Hospital in Victoria for veterinary care.

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One kitten euthanised, another in foster care

Blue Cross veterinary examinations revealed that one of the kittens had a severe congenital condition. The charity made the decision to euthanise the kitten to prevent further suffering. Another kitten, Malibu, was diagnosed with a Grade 4 heart murmur and remains in foster care until she is old enough for further scans.

Amanda Rumball, London Welfare Officer at Blue Cross, said Barbie was initially nervous but quickly relaxed once she realised her kittens were safe. She described Barbie as a devoted mother whose care had kept the kittens in good condition despite their ordeal.

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Barbie was understandably a little nervous when she first arrived in our care at the hospital, and her focus was on making sure her babies were safe throughout. Once she realised they were safe, she quickly relaxed, revealing herself to be a calm and devoted mother.

Amanda Rumball, London Welfare Officer at Blue Cross

Two cats rehomed, charity warns of pet welfare crisis

Barbie and her surviving kitten, Guinness, have been rehomed through Blue Cross’s centre in Wherstead, Suffolk. Malibu remains in foster care while the charity monitors her heart condition. Blue Cross said the case highlights a wider pet welfare crisis, with increasing numbers of vulnerable cats needing support.

Cllr Caroline Sargent, Westminster City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement, praised the animal welfare team’s work. She urged residents to look after pets during hot weather and to report concerns about animals in distress.

Residents who suspect an animal is in danger can contact Westminster City Council’s animal welfare team for assistance.