Beltsville Community Cats (BCC) operates a successful rescue program, having trapped, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated over 1,500 cats between 2019 and 2023. Of these, almost half were taken into BCC's rescue program. Many of the young kittens and abandoned house cats rescued by BCC initially have minor illnesses that must be promptly treated. However, some are severely ill. Here are two of many stories of cats that BCC saved from near death:
In late 2021, a man brought a kitten to a BCC volunteer, mentioning that it might be sick before quickly leaving. The volunteer was shocked to find the kitten barely clinging to life and covered in filth. Rushed to the vet, the kitten, appropriately named Lazarus, was diagnosed to be suffering from severe dehydration, malnutrition, a respiratory infection, parasites, and ear mites. It was given medication and follow-up care for three weeks, eventually recovering. Lazarus was then adopted into a loving home where he brings immense joy to the family.
Early in 2023, a unique-looking cat with a serious limp appeared at a BCC volunteer's home. Despite efforts to locate the owner through social media, no one came forward. The cat, named Ghost, was taken to the vet, where he was diagnosed with Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Despite the vet's recommendation for euthanasia, BCC chose to advertise Ghost for a special needs’ adoption. He was eventually adopted by a woman with experience as a vet tech.
BCC recently received a report that Ghost, now named Yoshi, is thriving in his new home where he receives extra care to manage his health conditions. He is described as mellow and brave. He has become a beloved member of the family and is especially close to their 10-year-old daughter. A DNA test revealed his mixed heritage that includes Bengal, British Shorthair, and Persian ancestry.
BCC does all that it can to save cats and kittens that need more than typical veterinary care such as Lazarus and Yoshi. We appreciate all those who are willing to take on the responsibility of caring for special needs cats. While a special needs kitty may demand a little extra care and time, the love that their owners receive in return makes it all worthwhile.
Do you have a place in your home and heart for one of our special needs cats, or are you simply ready to bring a cat or kitten into your family? Contact us at 240-444-8353 or rescue@beltsvillecats.net or check out the kitties we have available for adoption at: https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/md/beltsville/beltsville-community-cats-md506/.
Coyote Alert: BCC has been informed that a coyote has been spotted several times off Power Mill Road not far from Rhode Island Avenue. One colony caretaker reported that all four of his cats disappeared over a few weeks. If you feed free-roaming cats in that area, or if you have any pet cats or dogs that go outside, please exercise extra caution to protect these animals.
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