The Sad Sweet Sixteen
An Object Lesson in True Caring
Sixteen sad, sweet cats were waiting for help next to their now-vacant house.
All 16 of these once-beautiful Persian and Persian-mix cats were trying to survive outside. The elderly homeowner had been removed to a hospital and would not return. He had obviously been unable to care for them properly for quite some time. Neighbors had tried to help, but 16 is more than even the kindest neighbor can cope with for long. The County Social Services agency called CC4C to rescue these unfortunate cats that were now homeless, despite being longtime loved members of a family.
As each was brought in for veterinary care, the full scope of their need became apparent. They were older cats, ranging from 5 to 11 years. Some needed their coats completely shaved, revealing pathetically skinny bodies. Others only needed clumps of fur clipped to remove the biggest mats. Most had neglected teeth, requiring a number of extractions. One had a severe upper respiratory infection and skin condition that has needed weeks of treatment.
Thankfully, 10 of the 16 have been adopted. But this is a major project for a small group like CC4C. Can you please help? Veterinary expenses have totaled about $3500. Financial support would be gratefully appreciated. And please share this story with friends who love the Persian or Exotic Shorthair look. These soft, gentle seniors deserve to feel secure and loved again.
OUR CATS ARE PAMPERED FAMILY
Plan For Their Future Care Too
The homeless experience of these 16 cats is preventable. All it takes is some advance planning on the part of the people who love them.
We all consider our cats as family. We spare no expense to make them happy, safe, healthy and comfortable. But we should spend more – more time and thought to put in place the means to care for our cats if we are unable to, due to serious illness, hospitalization, residence in a care facility, or death.
Here are a few basic steps you can take now – and can pass along to other cat owners – to ensure your cat’s future:
- Put it in writing: Create a written record of your cat (or dog) including photo, description, food preferences, special treats and toys, favorite hiding places. Provide details about behavior that would help her adjust to a new environment (shy, dogs/no dogs, kids OK or what ages OK, etc.). Indicate the cat’s veterinarian, any medication or treatment received or receiving, including written permission to share their medical records. Note if the cat is microchipped, including the number and name of the monitoring agency.
- Get a commitment: Note the contact information of the friend or family member who has agreed to take in and care for the cat. Give him/her a copy of the written info above. Have a backup in place, in case it becomes impossible for that person to take the cat as planned.
- Formalize it: Include the plan for your cat in your will, perhaps with a reasonable bequest to the person taking the cat.
Complete this exercise for all your pets, and you’ll sleep better knowing someone will be there for them if you can’t.
Thanks for “being there” for CC4C over the years.
Your donations have helped us ensure a better future for hundreds of feral and homeless adoptable cats this year – and for years to come.
