SAN FRANCISCO — Friends and fans of Edna the Fire Cat aren't giving up hope that she may be returned to the San Francisco fire station that had been her home for years before recently being banished by authorities.
Supporters on Wednesday demanded that the San Francisco Fire Commission let the newly famous orange and black tortoiseshell kitty again become a part of Fire Station 49 despite a complaint that she was a health and safety hazard.
Edna became a social media cause célèbre after officials ordered her removed from the station house because of the anonymous complaint about her presence. An Instagram account dedicated to the feline has gained more than 43,000 followers.
Photos posted there show her celebrating various holidays, posing adorably in and on ambulances, and sleeping peacefully in sun-puddles.
A post shared by Edna SFFD Stn 49 EMS Cat (@fire_cat_edna) on Feb 11, 2019 at 1:55pm PST
Edna had been a fixture at Station 49 since first showing up in 2014 as a feral stray and warming her way into the hearts of the firefighters.
Michelle Estrada is a former EMT who was at Station 49 when Edna arrived five years ago.
"She was in the yard hanging out, super friendly, sitting on the top of the ambulances," she said.
At the station, the crews quickly realized their relationship with Edna had advantages.
"We started leaving her treats," said Estrada, "and the next thing you know, the traps that we had out for the mice were starting to be empty. She started taking care of the station. Then she started making friends with the crews coming in. I know she's missed right now."
Edna provided a bit of cheer to people whose jobs are often very difficult.
"These crew members have long shifts," Estrada said. "They're seeing the worst of the worst that you can imagine in the city. So to come to the station, to see a cat to greet you - how cool is that?"
Supporters spoke out at the meeting, saying they believe that a pet like Edna helps soothe the stress experienced by emergency responders.
"I can only imagine the stress they have to deal with, and having a little cat that they can pet ... and have in their laps and take care of, I think, makes a huge difference," said one woman.
"She has a home there," said another supporter. "People love her there."
Edna is staying with a member of the San Francisco Fire Department for now. It's not clear whether the Fire Commission is open to allowing her back to Station 49.
Written by Diana Shook.
