Florida Woman Helps Feral Cat With Severe Scabies Begin A New Life
Rescuing and caring for stray cats is never simple. It takes patience, dedication, and an endless supply of compassion. Some days are messy, others can be heartbreaking, but ask anyone who has devoted themselves to rescue work and they’ll tell you it’s worth every moment.
That’s how Stephany Mullis Johnston sees it. Cat rescue isn’t something she stumbled into — it’s a mission she feels she was meant to pursue.
As she once explained 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 saved countless cats in Florida through her organization, Lake City Kitties. Yet among them, one case stood out more than most — a little cat named Cecil.
Cecil was discovered outside a local business in heartbreaking condition. His coat was so filthy and matted that his eyes were barely visible.
His ears had thickened and become misshapen, resembling cauliflower. Worst of all, his skin was ravaged by a severe case of scabies, leaving him covered in crusty, painful patches.
Alone and suffering, Cecil had been fighting a losing battle. But Stephany wasn’t about to let him continue that way. She stepped in, determined to give him the chance at life he so desperately needed.
Most people don’t realize just how devastating scabies and mange can be for cats. Caused by microscopic mites burrowing under the skin, they bring relentless itching, hair loss, infections, and misery.
In an Instagram post, Stephany explained:
“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.”
Cecil’s care began immediately. Stephany rushed him to Operation Catnip in Gainesville, where he received specialized treatment.
It wasn’t quick or easy — his recovery required multiple trips and plenty of patience. Slowly but surely, though, Cecil began to heal. His fur returned, his skin cleared, and his pain faded away.
The transformation was astonishing. The frail, broken cat who once seemed hopeless blossomed into a handsome, fluffy boy full of energy and curiosity. His once-lifeless eyes now sparkled with mischief and playfulness. Though his ears bore a few lasting scars, they were no longer a source of pain.
Even more remarkable than his physical recovery was his spirit. From the very first day, Cecil showed nothing but sweetness.
Despite his suffering, he welcomed affection, purred constantly, and leaned into every cuddle. It was as though he knew he had been saved and wanted to show his gratitude.
Stephany couldn’t help but reflect on his painful past.
“Cecil should’ve never gotten to the point he was at. No animal should,” she said.
Seeing him now, healthy and loved, was proof of how easily things could have been different.
Today, Cecil lives the life every cat deserves — safe, cared for, and surrounded by love. His story is a testament to the power of compassion.
As Stephany wrote:
“All it took was a little effort to make a huge impact. Sometimes that’s all it takes.”
For Stephany, Cecil is another reminder of why she’ll never stop fighting for cats in need. Because every rescue matters, and every cat deserves a second chance.
