Bobcat kitten 'porch pirate' dies from severe emaciation

ROUND ROCK, Texas (KXAN) -- A bobcat kitten who captured the attention of the Round Rock Police Department with his "porch pirate" antics last week passed away from emaciation, Georgetown-based All Things Wild Rehabilitation confirmed to KXAN Wednesday.

RRPD's animal control officers responded to a call Thursday regarding a bobcat kitten toying with packages on a resident's front porch.

Animal control officers took the kitten to All Things Wild, where staff documented he was in "critical condition" due to extreme emaciation. All Things Wild confirmed the kitten passed overnight due to organ failure.

"It is with a heavy heart that we have to tell you that the young bobcat kitten that came in last week passed away overnight. Organ failure had simply taken over from extreme emaciation," the rehabilitation center shared on Facebook."We certainly don't like days like this as there is a bit of sadness throughout the center. But, we have to carry on as there are other furry, feathered, and scaly lives that need our help. Thank you for your donations as they will continue to help other animals in memory of little bobcat kitten."

Helen Laughlin, president of All Things Wild, added in an email to KXAN any dehydrated and/or emaciated wild baby animals should immediately be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator, such as All Things Wild. Anyone can call the rehabilitator at 512-897-0806 for guidance and best practices between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Sunday.

More details on how to aid wild animals in need of help are available on All Things Wild's website.