Cat Struggles On California Streets For 4 Years After Owners Heartlessly Leave Him Behind

sad cat

Sadly, many people don’t understand that welcoming a pet into their lives is a lifelong commitment. 

For cats who have only known the safety of a home, the outside world can be a terrifying place. This is the story of Jupiter, a cat with the most sorrowful eyes you could ever see. 

His life changed in the worst way when his owners moved away and left him behind to face the world alone.

abandoned cat
Credit: YouTube

Jupiter survived nearly four years wandering the streets of San Bernardino. Having spent his early life as a friendly house cat, he struggled to fit in with feral and stray cats.

His desperation grew so strong that he even attempted to sneak into a neighbour’s house, hoping to find some comfort and safety.

That is how Jaina from Cats of San Bernardino first heard about Jupiter. The neighbor shared a story about the little intruder on their Instagram, and Jaina decided to act immediately. As she shared in a video

“It broke our hearts knowing that he wanted to be inside and be around a family.”

street cat in woman's arms
Credit: YouTube

When Jaina and her team finally reached him, his sorrow was impossible to miss. His eyes seemed to tell the story of his harsh life on the streets.

They carefully placed him in a crate and took him straight to the vet. Within just a week, he had fully recovered and began seeking affection, approaching the staff and asking for the cuddles he had long been missing.

The hospital staff quickly noticed Jupiter’s gentle nature.

He would snuggle and comfort the kittens at the clinic, so they entrusted him with the special role of caring for and calming kittens in need.

abandoned cat sleeping peacefully with another kitten
Credit: Instagram

As Jupiter’s story spread, countless people wanted to adopt him, but one couple, in particular, caught Jaina’s attention.

They were ready to come from the north to sunny California just to bring Jupiter home. Jaina and her team wanted someone willing to commit to Jupiter, considering his past. As she mentioned: 

“We knew anyone that’s willing to cross borders and fly thousands of miles for a kitty, they’re serious.”

Once his new parents arrived at the shelter, they couldn’t contain their happiness. As his new mom Miranda said in the video:

“I felt like it was almost like a first date. I had butterflies in my stomach while we were driving.”

street cat rescued
Credit: Instagram

When Jupiter first arrived at his new home, he hid between the pillows. He stayed tucked away for a while before gathering the courage to meet his new feline siblings.

As Miranda shared:

“But he came out of his shell in a couple of days. He bonded with us almost immediately.”

shaggy big cat
Credit: Instagram

These days, Jupiter is a happy, chunky fluffball, enjoying life with his cat siblings and devoted forever parents.

Although he moved far from California for his new home, it’s clear he’s settled in perfectly.

If you ever find yourself unable to care for a pet, reach out to your local shelter – they can help find a loving new home.

Read next