In the bustling streets of Brooklyn, a raggedy, dirt-covered cat named Teddy was found sitting on the sidewalk, pleading for help. His fur was matted with dirt, and his body was covered in fleas, cuts, and scratches. It was clear that Teddy needed immediate help.
A local resident, moved by Teddy’s condition, quickly fetched a carrier and some wet food. Teddy, seemingly aware that help had arrived, didn’t hesitate to walk into the carrier. This marked the beginning of Teddy’s incredible journey from a life of hardship on the streets to a loving home.
Teddy was named after a worn, raggedy old teddy bear, discarded and forgotten on the street. His rescuers saw a parallel between Teddy and the teddy bear, both in need of love and care. Teddy’s first stop was a bath, a necessary step given his dirty condition and flea infestation.
Despite the common belief that cats despise water, Teddy seemed to understand that the bath was part of his healing process.
Teddy’s medical evaluation revealed compromised kidney function, anemia, and a urinary tract infection. Despite these health challenges, Teddy showed a strong will to live. His appetite remained stable, and he began grooming himself a few weeks into his recovery, signs that he was slowly adjusting to his new life.
Further tests revealed mineral buildup in one kidney and a narrowing in the other, leading to high blood pressure and increased kidney values.
Teddy needed a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device, a procedure that bypasses an obstructed ureter to allow normal flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder.
This surgery was expensive, but thanks to the generosity of people from around the world who had been following Teddy’s story, the funds were raised, and Teddy underwent the surgery.
Teddy’s recovery was a community effort. His foster parents learned how to administer his medications and subcutaneous fluids.
Despite eating most of his meals through a tube and taking numerous medications daily, Teddy remained in good spirits. His foster home was filled with love and care, which played a significant role in his recovery.
After seven months in foster care, Teddy was finally ready for his forever home. Saying goodbye was bittersweet for his foster family, but they knew Teddy deserved a family where he could be the center of attention.
Today, Teddy enjoys his life with his new family, complete with a special VIP water fountain and a big brother named Willy.
Teddy’s story is a testament to the power of community and the difference that love and care can make in an animal’s life.
It’s a reminder of the countless cats like Teddy who are still on the streets, waiting for their chance at a better life. Teddy’s journey from the streets to a loving home is a beacon of hope, inspiring more people to join the cause and help rescue more cats in need.
Watch the video here:
Lee Harris
Latest posts by Lee Harris (see all)
- Homemade Cat Cookies: A Purr-fect Treat for Any Occasion - February 7, 2024
- Chic Feline Elegance: Crafting a Multi-Tiered Black Cat Cake - February 6, 2024
- Purr-fectly Delicious: Black Cat-Themed Donut Delight - February 5, 2024