Missouri Woman Adopts A Bullied Shelter Cat Only To Discover He’s Something Truly Special

Senior pets often get overlooked at adoption centers because of their age or potential health problems.

But one woman chose to give an older cat a chance, and the bond they built showed that love and friendship don’t have an age limit.

TikTok user @shamabouf  shared the story of Coyote, a senior cat who had faced bullying at the shelter before finding his forever home.

Younger cats would gang up on him, and she even witnessed one swat him during her visit. The cat never retaliated, which made it clear he needed a calm, loving home.

She expected it would take time for Coyote to adjust to his new surroundings, like most adopted pets.

But to her surprise, he bonded with her instantly and refused to leave her side. 

Screenshots from her video show the senior cat constantly snuggling with his new owner. Wrapped in a blanket, he clings to her, protesting whenever she tries to set him down.

This wasn’t typical behaviour for most cats, so she had to adapt her routine, carrying him like a tiny baby and keeping him wrapped in a blanket for comfort. As she explained in her post:

“I didn’t realize taking a chance on the elderly cat that was getting bullied at the shelter meant I was going to have to blanket-wear him every day because he hates being put down.”

The love and trust he shows are clear in every interaction. Coyote’s paws hold tight around her as if to say thank you for rescuing him. Her caption captures it perfectly:

“Take a chance on an elderly cat!! He’s worth it, my little cutie coyote baby.”

The video quickly resonated with viewers, amassing over 258,000 views and 58,000 likes. Comments poured in from people inspired by their bond:

“Older babies have so much love in them once they realize they are safe.” one TikTok user commented. Another added, “Oh my God, he knows he found his last home.” A third person said, “He feels safe enough to let his inner baby out.”

By giving a chance to a senior, bullied cat, the woman transformed Coyote’s life while gaining a devoted companion.

His story is a reminder that age doesn’t define a pet’s capacity for love. 

Senior cats often carry a wealth of affection and gratitude, waiting for someone to open their hearts.

If you’re thinking about adopting, keep in mind that older animals still have so much life, love, and companionship to give. 

Welcoming a senior pet into your home can bring unexpected joy, unwavering loyalty, and a deep, lasting bond that only grows stronger with each passing day, proving that age is never a barrier to love.

@shamabouf Take a chance on an elderly cat!! He’s worth it my little cutie coyote baby🫶🏻 #catsoftiktok #elderlycat #seniorcats #seniorpets #seniorcatadoption ♬ original sound – David Attenborough