A Shocking Discovery in Oakdale (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Minnesota — A black-and-white feline named Xiao Mao captured hearts across the state after enduring a grueling three-week journey inside a shipping container from China.[1][2]
A Shocking Discovery in Oakdale
Workers in Oakdale uncovered Xiao Mao cowering under pallets in the container during the summer of 2025. The cat had traveled roughly 8,000 miles, likely crossing oceans and rails without sustenance.[3] Animal control secured her immediately, noting her malnourished and dehydrated state.
Rescuers marveled at her endurance. Kerry D’Amato, executive director of Pet Haven Inc., later reflected on the mystery: “It’s actually amazing she survived that journey, and we are not 100% sure how she did it. Three weeks without food or water, she would not be alive. She must have been drinking condensation, maybe eating bugs and rodents there.”[2] First, staff transferred her to Northwoods Humane Society in Wyoming for initial care.
From Fear to Fragile Hope
Pet Haven, Minnesota’s oldest animal rescue organization, soon took over her case in St. Paul. Upon arrival, Xiao Mao weighed next to nothing and lashed out with hisses and lunges at anyone who approached. Her illness compounded the trauma from the ordeal.
The team enrolled her in the Wallflowers Program, tailored for shy or shutdown animals. This initiative offers gradual socialization to rebuild trust and prepare cats for homes. D’Amato explained its impact: “We give them socialization steps where they can learn trust. They can learn to become friends with humans again and find their forever family.”[1] The program boasts a perfect record, with every participant graduating to adoption.
The Magic of Companionship
A turning point came when rescuers introduced Prince, a charming tabby from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation. Xiao Mao quickly warmed to him, showing affection that softened her demeanor. Staff described her as “smitten,” crediting Prince’s calm presence for her progress.
Today, she chirps at caregivers, responds to her name—meaning “little cat” in Mandarin—and greets visitors with curiosity. Her yellow eyes shine brightly, ears perk forward, and she ventures out confidently. D’Amato noted the transformation: “Today, she chirps at us and comes out when we call her. Her eyes are bright, her ears are forward, she is giving us all the indications she is trusting.”[2]
Path to Forever Homes
Xiao Mao and Prince now thrive as a bonded pair, slated for adoption together in the coming months. Pet Haven relies entirely on donations, without federal support, amid widespread shelter overcrowding statewide.
| Before Rescue | After Recovery |
|---|---|
| Deathly thin, aggressive | Gained weight, affectionate |
| Hissing, lunging | Chirps, approaches curiously |
| Fearful isolation | Bonded with companion |
Rescuers urge the public to consider fostering or adopting to make room for more animals in need.
Key Takeaways
- Specialized programs like Wallflowers turn traumatized cats around with proven success.
- Companionship accelerates healing for shelter animals.
- Donations and adoptions combat overcrowding at rescues like Pet Haven.
Xiao Mao’s story underscores the power of patience and expertise in animal rescue, proving that even the most harrowing journeys can lead to joyful new chapters. What do you think about her incredible turnaround? Tell us in the comments.
Gargi from India has a Masters in History, and a Bachelor of Education. An animal lover, she is keen on crafting stories and creating content while pursuing a career in education.
