Our feline friends often get caught in floods, fires and earthquakes just like the rest of us, and sometimes they need a helping human hand. Check out these 10 photographs of cats being rescued after disaster struck, and be sure to find out what you can do to prepare your pets for an emergency.

 

In this photo, Alen Elton rescues his cat from his flooded home on June 16, 2008 in Oakville, Iowa. Residents of the town fled on short notice after a levee holding back the Iowa River gave way. (Text: Laura Moss)