Bronx Man Uncovers A Shocking Truth About A Stray Cat He Regularly Feeds
Belladonna, a calico cat, spent her entire life without anyone realizing she was different from other strays.
She roamed the streets of the Bronx, New York, navigating through alleyways and relying on her senses to survive.
Her life took a heartwarming turn when Juan, a compassionate man and animal rescuer, decided to step in and help.
Juan has become a true hero for the local stray and feral cats. He ensures they have food, are in good health, and works with local rescue groups to get them spayed or neutered.
Belladonna, with her striking calico coat, was one of the many cats Juan cared for. She often visited his feeding station, but no one realized she was blind.
One day, Juan noticed something unusual about Belladonna. She was moving through the streets with surprising ease, but she wasn’t responding to her surroundings the way a sighted cat would.
It dawned on him that she was blind, and he became worried about her safety, especially as he noticed she was losing weight at an alarming rate.
Soon, Juan reached out to Little Wanderers NYC, a local rescue group, and they swiftly reacted. They shared in an interview:
“Our rescuer scooped her up immediately. Although she was struggling with pretty severe anemia, she was otherwise adjusting well to her new indoor life.”
Little Wanderers NYC quickly stepped in to help. They took Belladonna in and began providing the care she desperately needed.
She was weak and battling severe anemia, but for the first time, she was off the streets and safe, ready to start a new chapter in her life.
Just when it seemed like things were improving, Belladonna’s health took a turn for the worse.
She became even weaker, stopped eating, and began sleeping constantly. Tragically, the vets diagnosed her with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).
The rescue added:
“We were given two choices. Euthanize her in the next day or two, as she would soon be gravely suffering. Or, contact FIP Warriors, purchase the life-saving medication and get her started as soon as possible.”
The rescue team didn’t give up. With the help of the FIP warrior community, they found special medicine for Belladonna.
Suzy, one of the rescuers, drove a long way to get the medication, and just two days after starting the treatment, Belladonna’s condition began to improve.
Little Wanderers NYC shared on their Facebook page:
“Within two days she was walking better, eating more, and showed a little bit more life in her gorgeous blind eyes.”
Belladonna’s recovery was nothing short of miraculous. She regained her strength, began grooming herself, and put on the weight she had lost.
As she started feeling better, her loving personality began to shine through. She became more affectionate, exploring her environment and seeking out pets and cuddles.
Now, at around 10 years old, Belladonna’s recovery is truly remarkable! Just days ago, Suzy had to help her stand because she couldn’t do it on her own. And now, look at her!
Despite losing a few of her teeth, nothing stops Belladonna from enjoying her favorite treats. She loves attention and responds to voices just like any other cat.
She’s always ready to come to you for cuddles, no matter the time, and she’s excellent at recognizing anyone’s voice.
Her rescuers are in awe of how she navigates her surroundings, exploring and embracing every moment of her life.
She’s an amazing little feline, and many people still can’t tell she’s blind when they first meet her, that’s how good she is at navigating her space. The rescue said:
“It never ceases to amaze me how steadily she navigates her space. She never bumps into anything nor trips. It’s endlessly fascinating watching a smart, resourceful blind cat navigate her new indoor life.”
Belladonna’s story is a beautiful example of how a little kindness can make a huge difference.
From being a frail street cat to enjoying a loving, warm home, Belladonna has come a long way.
She now loves belly rubs and basking in the sun, and she’s grateful for every bit of attention. They added:
“She looks and seems like a whole different cat. She has become so affectionate now that she’s feeling better. She loves belly tickles and rubs her own head when I’m doing it.”
As Belladonna grows stronger and happier each day, Juan and the volunteers at Little Wanderers NYC continue their work, helping other cats in need.
Share her story with your friends to spread some extra love and kindness!
