As Forrest Gump Might Say… or Libby!

Sometimes rescue can be like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get. Libby is one such case.

Stray Cat Blues received a request in February 2022 to help a senior cat who had been abandoned by her owners. The landlord of Libby’s home eventually needed to bring in new tenants and Libby was being evicted.

I am a Foster at Stray Cat Blues and a sucker for torties. When I heard Libby’s story and saw her picture, I just had to help this poor girl out.

Fortunately, the person who contacted us for help had information about Libby’s past. Libby was a senior with hyperthyroidism and had been on her own for over 5 months after surviving a tornado and flooding. She was being fed daily but was without medication and human companionship. I was concerned about what her current condition might be, so I immediately took Libby to be evaluated by our vet.

Libby was underweight, needed some extractions and her blood work revealed very high thyroid levels, she had arthritis in her spine, both of which required medication. Thanks to donors who set up a fund for our special needs kitties, Libby received the medical care she needed and a carpeted staircase to assist with her mobility. Now, to find her a forever home!

Libby was posted on Petfinder,Stray Cat Blues Website and Social Media Platforms given exposure at PetSmart and no one applied to adopt her. Not only did she have medical issues but I soon learned that while Libby loves people, she strongly dislikes other cats! Oh, and one other mention, Libby may be deaf. How on earth were we going to find her a forever home?

Right about the time I was giving up hope that Libby would get her happy ending, The Petfinder Foundation announced a grant opportunity: “Adoption Assistance for a Senior Pet with Medical Needs”. Libby was the purr-fect candidate and was the lucky recipient of this Grant which gave Stray Cat Blues the opportunity to offer a generous incentive to the potential adopter. In a matter of days my wish came true. Someone was interested in Libby and wanted to meet her!

During Libby’s “Meet & Greet”, Libby did not disappoint. She showed her potential adopter what a loving and sweet cat she is. And if her special needs were at all a deterrent, I think that grant may well have made the difference in making the decision to adopt.

Today Libby is finally settled in a happy home and her adopter has the wonderful and loving companion she had hoped for.

Turns out it was a sweet piece of chocolate after all Forrest!