A cat waited at a shopping center until a kind woman approached. He leaned into her, ready for change.
BartSouthern Arizona Cat Rescue
A few months ago, a tabby cat was found at a shopping center, lying quietly in the shade near a window.
When Maria, an animal rescuer, was alerted about the cat, she rushed over and was relieved to find him still there. Unsure whether he was feral or friendly, she approached slowly, careful not to frighten him.
"When she extended her hand for him to sniff and see how he would react, he leaned his head into it as if to say, I need help," Southern Arizona Cat Rescue (SACR) told Love Meow.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
The tabby allowed his rescuer to scoop him up and place him into a carrier, as if he understood he was finally in good hands.
Once settled into foster care, the cat, named Bartholomew (or Bart), revealed what a love bug he truly was. The moment he was touched, he began kneading with his paws and purring loudly. For the first time in a long while, he could sleep soundly in a cozy bed for as long as he pleased.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
With the support of SACR, Bart was cleaned up, vetted, neutered, and treated for a wound behind his ear. They discovered he had diabetes and needed extensive dental work. "He was the best patient, stealing everyone's hearts with his head butts and sweet demeanor."
He began receiving daily insulin and treatment for an ear infection. He took everything in stride, constantly purring and seeking affection.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
"No shock at all, he is also FIV+. We see this often with older intact toms who have had a street life, especially those with longer healing wounds." With proper care and an indoor lifestyle, cats with FIV can thrive and live long, healthy lives.
Through it all, Bart remained in good spirits. His ear infection cleared, and his once-thin frame filled out beautifully.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
After a much-needed dental procedure, Bart no longer had any teeth, but he was finally free from pain. "He was so loving with how he would look into your eyes. He was laid-back but had playful spurts. No human food was safe. He was like a shark for treats."
Bart blossomed into a confident, handsome cat with a charming, raspy meow.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
He loved lounging in cozy spots, especially when his people were close by. No longer wandering the streets or struggling to survive, he fully embraced the comfort of indoor life.
Feeling better than ever, Bart often curled up beside his human, purring himself to sleep.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
When Bart was ready for his next chapter, he moved to Hunter's Kitten Lounge, SACR's cat lounge, to meet potential adopters. He didn't have to wait long. "His adopter met him at the lounge and fell in love."
His new mom, a nurse, understood his medical needs and felt confident managing his care. "She was waiting for a solo older kitty to spoil and love. Medical issues were not a problem."
Bart has found his forever homeSouthern Arizona Cat Rescue
Now, Bart reigns as the king in his forever home. He supervises his human from room to room, always ready to offer cuddles and purrs. It's hard to believe he's the same cat that was once spotted outside a shopping center.
He has transformed into the perfect lounge companion, bringing joy to everyone he meets.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
Thanks to a compassionate rescuer and many dedicated volunteers, Bart was saved, healed, and matched with his dream home. Today, he's living the best life he was always meant to have.
Southern Arizona Cat Rescue
Share this story with your friends. More cats and kittens at Southern Arizona Cat Rescue on Instagram @sacatrescue and Facebook.
Related story: Cat Curled Up Outside House on Bitter Cold Day, When the Door Opened, He Walked in Ready for Change