Stray Cat Makes Home at Wichita Fire Station

Firefighters at Station 5 and local residents support the cat that has moved into their long-standing neighborhood firehouse.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Cats

Screen-print poster illustration of a ginger cat resting near an open window, evoking the community connection at a historic fire station. — A stray cat has become a cherished resident at Wichita Fire Department Station 5, finding comfort and community within the historic firehouse. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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A stray cat has become a fixture at Wichita Fire Department Station 5, frequently entering through a boiler room window to join the crew. This long-term relationship between the feline and the firefighters at the station, which was established in 1954, has been supported by local residents through donations.

Why it matters

The cat's presence at the station has become a unique point of community connection for Wichita residents who contribute to its care. The animal became a part of the station life months before the passing of firefighter Ty Voth, anchoring a legacy of comfort for the crew.

Station 5 has been in operation in Wichita since 1954, serving as the base where the cat now resides. All three shifts of firefighters participate in feeding the animal, which gains access to the building through an open boiler room window.

The players

Wichita Fire Department Station 5

A long-standing city fire station that has served the local community since 1954.

Ty Voth

A firefighter whose service at the station preceded the final months of the cat's arrival.

The details

The cat maintains access to the fire station by jumping through an open boiler room window. Once inside, the feline is cared for by members of all three shifts at Station 5. While the cat was once returned by a resident after climbing onto a fire truck, it continues to claim the station as its primary home.

1954: Wichita Fire Department Station 5 was established.
2024-2026: The stray cat has claimed the station as its home.

The Home Front

While standard facility protocols typically restrict wildlife inside municipal buildings, the integration of a stray animal into Station 5 mirrors a community-led care model. This unique situation highlights how local public safety sites often serve as informal hubs for neighborhood animal welfare.

Residents interested in supporting the station's efforts can coordinate with the local department regarding donation protocols. If you find a stray animal near your home, consider contacting local animal control to ensure the pet receives proper veterinary care.

The takeaway

The deep bond between the Station 5 crew and their unexpected visitor highlights the role of local fire stations as community cornerstones. If you wish to assist in the care of community animals, always verify the current needs or donation policies with the specific organization first.