On 22nd February, a 4-year-old ginger cat named Zoey was taken in by the Carver Scott Humane Society in the US state of Minnesota. The little cat had first been handed over to a partner shelter after his owner had to move into a care home and could no longer look after him.
But the volunteers immediately noticed something touching: a note was taped to Zoey's carrier.
A simple but heartbreaking request
In the message, the former owner made just one request: that Zoey's teddy bear should never be taken away from him.
The toy has become a real source of comfort for the cat, something the shelter staff noticed very quickly. When they briefly removed the teddy bear to clean it, Zoey became visibly distressed.
As soon as the toy was returned, the cat calmed down immediately, clutching it tightly. The two have been inseparable ever since. Touched by their heartwarming bond, the shelter staff quickly grew fond of the unusual pair.
A new start for Zoey and Joey
Zoey's story was shared on social media to find a name for his teddy bear, and to help him find a new family. After looking through suggestions from the public, the team decided to name the bear Joey.
Since his arrival, Zoey has been settling into shelter life quite well. He is staying in the cattery, where he has his own room to rest and get his bearings. Although he's still a little shy with strangers, he already enjoys being stroked, brushed, and getting attention from people.
For the volunteers, Zoey's attachment to his teddy is understandable given the upheaval he's experienced. Being separated from his owner after several years is a difficult ordeal for any animal. In this situation, his teddy bear provides a reassuring presence.
The shelter now hopes that Zoey will soon find a new family ready to welcome him... along with Joey, of course.
