This past month was an exciting one for our rescue! 31 cats and kittens found their forever homes!
- Three of the cats adopted this month had been with our rescue for 100+ days.
- Two cats were recipients of the Lazzy Fund.
- Two cats are Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) positive.
- There were two double adoptions, and one triple adoption.
- One senior cat was adopted.
- One cat recently graduated from our Forgotten Feline program.
Our rescue relies heavily on donations from our amazing supporters to help us give the cats in our care the best possible chance at long, healthy lives where they are cherished by their forever families. In response to the cats in our program’s needs, we have created our Forgotten Feline program to help scared and under-socialized cats regain trust and confidence. We have also created The Lazzy Fund, which gives a second chance to those cats who have been neglected and forgotten, including cats in need of critical and lifesaving medical care.
We are thrilled to report that Bear, a handsome 5-1/2 year-old domestic short hair, secured his forever home on July 13th! We are particularly proud to share Bear’s story because it exemplifies our mission, which includes “giving a second chance to cats who have been forgotten: seniors, the physically and emotionally scarred, the behaviorally challenged, and those who need critical medical care.”
While not a senior, Bear had already experienced plenty of hardships as a community cat. Thankfully, a Good Samaritan brought him to us in December 2022. Since then, he has received exceptional care, love, and an endless supply of chin scratches. We wish to thank Sarah, his foster mom, for providing a safe and caring environment for this special kitty.
Bear’s Journey
Bear’s initial exam revealed a severe ear infection, limited range of motion in his hind limbs, and significant dental issues. He is also FIV+. “Bear had a mouth full of bad teeth and really bad yeast infections in both ears,” said his foster mom, Sarah. “The poor guy was a mess.”
Needless to say, his health problems impacted his behaviors. “He was definitely very afraid and very vocal,” Sarah shared. “There was a lot of hissing and growling in the early days but he would never swipe or bite.”
A few weeks after settling in, Sarah noticed something peculiar about his gait. “He walked with a very obvious limp. Luckily Bear had a dental appointment at Vetco, so we were able to get an X-ray while he was sedated.” Unfortunately, the report confirmed her fears: something was wrong with Bear’s hind legs. But, what?
“The veterinarian said she had never seen anything like it and recommended we see an orthopedic surgeon at Ocean State Veterinary Specialists.” Following her advice, Sarah scheduled a consultation with Dr. Coronado, an orthopedic specialist at Ocean State.
Three months later, a more intensive exam confirmed the earlier impressions. Apparently, Bear had suffered a traumatic pelvic injury in the past that had caused tissue to calcify in both hips and thighs. As a result, Bear’s range of motion had been significantly compromised in both legs.
“The prognosis was that Bear wouldn’t actually benefit from surgery and he may instead benefit from physical therapy,” Sarah said. “This led me to Louise at Rhode Island Pet Rehab (RIPR) where she did some massages to his legs, a laser therapy treatment, and some light stretches.” Bear made such an impression that RIPR committed to providing these services to Bear for as long as needed – even after he’s adopted! “Before I could take Bear to his second (therapy) appointment, he was adopted!” Sarah shared.
“By the time Bear had left, he was a gentle, sweet and affectionate boy who loved to be brushed and sleep in his heated window seat (which went with him).”
Once again, Ten Lives wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sarah for the amazing care she provided to Bear. We also want to thank Rhode Island Pet Rehab for their incredible generosity and those who provided medical care and support.
Congratulations, Bear! We wish you many more years of love, happiness, and treats with your new family.
We’d like to extend additional congratulations to Alison Purrlogna, Baca, Barry, BJs 1, Chowder, Christina Erknead, Clam Cake, Concrete, Corduroy, Daniel, Drill Bit, Drywall, Ellie, Frank Clawpano, Gene Valhissenti, Henry, Hotdog, Joel, Kyra, Mademoiselle Fluffington, Milkshake, Oyster, Pawl, Pawtrice Wood, Plywood, Sam, Samuel, Tess, Willow Tree Chicken Salad, and Ziggy for finding their forever homes!
Are you interested in adopting a cat from Ten Lives Cat Rescue? Take a look at our adoptable cats!
How can you help the cats currently in Ten Lives’ care? Sponsor a Forgotten Feline, become a foster, apply for one of our volunteer opportunities, donate to The Lazzy Fund, or purchase a needed item on our Wishlist.