California Residents Shocked To Discover A Stray Cat With A Tape Roll Stuck Around His Neck
Life on the streets can be brutal for stray cats, and for tiny kittens, every day is a struggle just to survive. Valentine’s story is a touching example of this harsh reality.
Residents in a California neighbourhood spotted a cat in distress, his neck caught in a roll of tape.
Every step he took was difficult, eating was a challenge, and the discomfort he endured was evident. Witnessing his quiet suffering was heartbreaking for everyone who saw him.
Attempts were made to catch him, even calling in animal control, but the cat was far too scared to let anyone get close.
Just when it seemed like all hope was gone, two compassionate rescuers stepped in. Kimberly Saxelby and Chris Gattas were determined that this would be the day the poor cat finally found safety.
It wasn’t an easy task. After an hour of unsuccessful tries, they switched tactics, using nets, and at last, they were able to safely catch the frightened little feline.
However, it wasn’t until the team approached closer that they realized how bad his injury was.
The tape must have been there for what seemed an eternity, as the smell coming from it was unbearable. Kimberly shared in an interview:
“We actually thought there was a dead animal near the shed but it was actually the smell of his rotting flesh and infection from his neck.”
Alarmed by the cat’s dire state, the rescuers hurried him to Rancho Cucamonga Animal Shelter to get him the urgent care he needed. Yet, they were soon met with another heartbreaking discovery.
When the veterinarians gently removed the tape from his neck, they found that it had cut deeply into his skin, leaving a serious wound that was badly infected.
The poor baby was clearly in agonizing pain. Recalling the horrible moment, Kimberly shared:
“It brought tears to my eyes because I couldn’t imagine the pain and suffering this poor sweet cat has been through and for as long as he has.”
Acting quickly, the veterinarians carried out emergency surgery to clean and repair the wound.
They carefully stitched his entire neck to restore the damaged skin and prevent further pain for the cat.
Thankfully, the procedure went well, and the little feline began his path to recovery. He was given a fresh start and a fittingly tender name – Valentine.
Nobody was happier than Kimberly to see her buddy finally pain-free. She created a Facebook page dedicated to his journey and shared updates on his condition.
Eager to see the ginger boy healed and happy, animal lovers made donations to speed up his recovery. Kimberly shared:
“The good news is it healing nicely and he is eating all his food, yes! Keep him in your thoughts and prayers, he has a long road ahead of him but he is a strong little warrior.”
Over the following days, Valentine’s health steadily improved. He could finally eat and drink comfortably, no longer hindered by the tape around his neck.
Despite his physical recovery exceeding everyone’s expectations, his mood remained low, and he still seemed weighed down by his ordeal.
He remained cautious and a bit grumpy, but given what this kitty had been through, it was no surprise. As Kimberly shared:
“After all we caught him which was pretty scary for him and then put in a crate and transported to the shelter for surgery, he woke up in pain and in a kennel so he has every right to not be a happy cat right now.”
To help Valentine feel more secure, the shelter provided him with a feral box, where he spent most of his time hiding. At the same time, they started looking for a foster home to give him a calmer environment.
After a short stay with one of Kimberly’s friends, Valentine was welcomed into April Glatzel’s care.
The change was overwhelming at first, and he spent most of his time hiding in the bathroom, finding comfort in the sink as his temporary safe spot.
April was patient and understanding. She knew that building trust takes time so she respected Valentine’s need for his own space and allowed him to adjust in his own way.
Yet, the caring woman ensured he knew she was there for him. Kimberly shared:
“This is a HUGE step for him as he went to sleep in his favorite spot with her sitting right next to him. This just shows how he is becoming more trusting of her. So happy right now I have tears in my eyes…”
Step by step, Valentine began to relax and accept the love and attention offered to him. Each small step showed that he was starting to trust again, and his progress was clear to see.
Before long, his natural curiosity started to shine through, revealing the playful personality he had been keeping hidden.
You can even catch him peeking from behind the bathroom door, carefully watching his human friend with growing confidence.
At last, Valentine stepped out of his safe zone and started exploring other rooms in the house.
With each sniff, he made a new discovery and soon realized that the sink wasn’t as comfy as the couch. Thrilled by his growing confidence, Kimberly shared:
“Look at this handsome boy making himself comfy on the couch. Valentine is making more and more strides and learning to trust little by little and this is just an example of one of them.”
Over time, Valentine’s anxiety began to ease. He remained cautious, yet he was a far cry from the wary little cat who once recoiled from any human contact.
With gentle patience and consistent care, April slowly earned Valentine’s trust, helping him let go of the fear he had carried and opening his heart to love.
As the bond between them blossomed, one thing became clear – April’s home was where Valentine belonged. Kimberly shared the most wonderful news:
“Valentine has found his forever loving home and best of all it is with his foster mama April Glatzel who loves him oh so much and has worked so hard to make him learn to trust humans again.”
The little cat who once shied away from everyone is now flourishing in his forever home, surrounded by April’s love and the company of fellow feline friends.
He enjoys cuddling with his mommy and can’t get enough belly rubs. April shares:
“Not a night goes by that Valentine does not sleep with me… He is so affectionate. And he also meows when it’s time to eat – he actually talks to me now! This boy has come a long way!”
What started as a promising foster journey quickly turned into a tricky challenge, but it ultimately ended in a joyful and heartwarming success!
