When a kind-hearted woman first spotted this polydactyl cat (meaning he has extra toes on his paws), he was skeletal and terrified. To help him, she set up a small shelter and brought him food regularly. With time and a lot of patience, the tomcat slowly began to let his guard down.
But one day, everything changed. The cat started bumping into things and struggled to find his shelter. It was clear just from looking at him: he was losing his sight. A blind cat left to fend for himself has no chance of surviving outdoors. It was then that the volunteer organisation, The Stray Cat Club, was contacted. The cat was rushed into their care and named Pebbles.
A hidden health crisis
A veterinary examination quickly revealed the cause of his sudden blindness. Pebbles was suffering from severe high blood pressure, which had caused both of his retinas to detach. The poor animal also had broken teeth, arthritis that stiffened his movements, and other chronic health problems.
Despite the pain and the loss of his sight, Pebbles immediately showed incredible gratitude. As soon as a hand touched him, he would start purring loudly and snuggle up to his rescuers. Freed from the stress of the streets, he seemed simply relieved to finally be safe.
A "Velcro cat" is born
Placed with a dedicated foster family, Pebbles began a spectacular transformation. Thanks to proper care, a special kidney diet, and medication to control his blood pressure, his health stabilised. Although he is permanently blind, he has learned the layout of his new home by heart and has even started to play again.
Today, Pebbles has become a true "Velcro cat". He follows his humans from room to room, refuses to leave their side, and loves to rest his big polydactyl paws on those he trusts. At his last vet check-up, the vet was very optimistic about his quality of life. After years of misery on the concrete of an industrial site, Pebbles is finally enjoying the comfort of a loving home, proving that even the most worn-out bodies can hide the gentlest of souls.