Rescuing and caring for stray cats isn’t easy. It takes patience, dedication, and a whole lot of heart. Some days are messy, and others can be downright heartbreaking. But ask anyone who has devoted their time to rescuing and they’ll tell you – it’s worth it.
That’s exactly how Stephany Mullis Johnston feels. She didn’t just stumble into cat rescue; it’s something she believes she was meant to do, sharing in an interview:
“They don’t have a voice or choice but we do. We can take responsibility and help the feral cat population.”
Over the years, Stephany has helped countless cats in Florida through her organization, Lake City Kitties. But among them, one little cat stood out – Cecil.
Cecil was found outside a local business in terrible condition. His fur was so matted and dirty that his eyes were barely visible. His ears were swollen and misshapen, looking like a cauliflower.
Worst of all, he was suffering from a severe case of scabies, which left his skin covered in crusty patches. It was clear he was in a lot of pain and discomfort.
Cecil had been fighting this battle all alone, and it showed. But when Stephany found him, she wasn’t about to let him keep suffering. She knew he deserved better, and she was there to make sure he got it.
Many people don’t realize how dangerous scabies and mange can be for animals. These conditions are caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leading to extreme itching, hair loss, and infections, as Stephany explained in an Instagram post:
“Scabies looks horrible and it is. It’s extremely itchy and uncomfortable as it is a skin burrowing mite. However, despite how bad it looks, it’s relatively easy to treat! A little effort made such a huge difference for this sweet butterball boy.”
For Cecil, help came just in time. Stephany rushed him to Operation Catnip in Gainesville, where he received the specialized care he needed.
His treatment required multiple trips and lots of patience, but step by step, he started to heal. His fur began to grow back, the scabs disappeared along with his pain. And then came the transformation.
That frail, sick little guy who once seemed so hopeless turned into a beautiful, fluffy boy. His eyes, once dull and lifeless, now shined with energy and curiosity.
His ears still had a few scars, but they no longer caused him pain. Cecil wasn’t just getting by – he was thriving, full of life and love.
But what was even more remarkable was Cecil’s personality. From the very first day, despite everything he had been through, he remained incredibly sweet.
There was no fear, no hesitation, just pure trust and affection. He purred, cuddled, and ate up every bit of attention he received. It was as if he knew he had been rescued and was grateful for every second of love.
Stephany couldn’t help but feel heartbroken for all the time he had suffered alone. No cat should have to endure what he did. Looking at him now, healthy and happy, only made it clear how much he had failed before. Stephany shared:
“Cecil should’ve never gotten to the point he was at. No animal should.”
Now, Cecil is living the life he deserves – safe, loved, and free from the pain of his past. His transformation was nothing short of incredible, and it’s proof of just how much a little love and kindness could change a life, as Stephany shared in an Instagram post:
“All it took was a little effort to make a huge impact. Sometimes that’s all it takes.”
And for Stephany, Cecil is yet another reason why she’ll never stop fighting for cats like him. Because every rescue matters and every cat deserves a second chance.
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