When they discovered this poor creature on the street, they knew it was in serious trouble.
Cats are often viewed as self-sufficient creatures, capable of fending for themselves. They wander outdoors for extended periods, returning home for food and grooming. However, some cat breeds require regular grooming to maintain their fur’s health, and neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to dire consequences.
The Shocking Discovery
Hidey, a cat, had endured years of neglect due to her owner’s inability to provide proper grooming. Her condition was so dire that the first time a rescuer encountered her, they mistook her for a cat hidden under a blanket, comparing her to a scene from a science fiction movie.
Hidey’s Neglect
Paul Russell, who had come to check on his elderly relative’s cat, was taken aback when this mysterious creature darted out from under a bed. Initially, he believed it was a cat concealed under a blanket. The following day, as he ventured into the eerie old cellar, he found the animal tucked away in a corner and realized that this was no ordinary cat.
The Importance of Grooming
The cat’s new owners, the Russells, later revealed that Hidey’s previous owner had Alzheimer’s disease and was no longer aware of her surroundings. They believed that Hidey’s inability to groom herself, exacerbated by her weight, had led to the formation of severe mats. Hidey would become a symbol of the importance of monitoring the health of elderly individuals and their pets.
Hidey’s Transformation
Upon discovering Hidey’s condition, the Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center in Pittsburgh were contacted for assistance. It was a heartbreaking revelation that Hidey’s owner had been moved to a nursing facility due to Alzheimer’s, and the cat had likely been abandoned for up to two years, leading to the development of dreadlocks that measured up to 6 to 8 inches in length.
The Responsibility of Pet Ownership
Dr. Yaelen Levitzki, a veterinarian, who played a crucial role in freeing Hidey from her matted fur, had never seen such extensive matting in a cat before. Hidey’s fur had transformed into dreadlocks, causing her immense discomfort. To ensure the cat’s comfort throughout the procedure, she was given a tranquilizer.
The shelter’s medical team reported that Hidey had suffered from severe matting that had gone untreated for years. After shaving off the pounds of tangled fur, the cat was feeling significantly better.
The Role of Companionship
Dan Rossi, CEO of the Animal Rescue League Shelter, emphasized the positive benefits that the companionship of pets can bring to the elderly. However, he stressed the importance of recognizing the responsibility that comes with pet ownership, particularly for elderly individuals. When mental faculties begin to deteriorate, a support system must be in place for pet owners.
A Cry for Help
Hidey’s story serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in caring for our pets and the elderly individuals who love them. The neglect that this cat endured was a tragic consequence of her owner’s Alzheimer’s, highlighting the importance of stepping in to help when such situations arise.
The Remarkable Transformation
After her rescue, Hidey’s life took a remarkable turn. She was resettled with a member of her owner’s family, providing her with the care and attention she so desperately needed.
Hidey’s story is a testament to the significance of responsible pet ownership, particularly when it involves elderly individuals. Neglect can lead to dire consequences for both the pets and their owners. It’s a call to action for society to ensure the welfare of those who can no longer care for their beloved companions.
