Happy Cat Sanctuary was a nonprofit, no-kill cat rescue and sanctuary located in Medford, Long Island, New York. Established in 2006 by Christopher Arsenault, the sanctuary specialized in rescuing cats and kittens from abuse, hoarding, and neglect. Over the years, it saved thousands of cats and reduced the feral population through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs.
On March 31, 2025, a devastating fire occurred at the sanctuary. The blaze broke out around 7:15 a.m. at the Happy Cat Sanctuary on Dourland Road. Christopher Arsenault, 65, tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue the cats. At the time of the fire, there were approximately 300 cats inside, and over 100 perished in the flames.
In the aftermath, the sanctuary announced plans to relocate to upstate New York, aiming to purchase a 30+ acre farm to rebuild and continue their mission. They are seeking donations to support this transition and their ongoing efforts to help at-risk cats.