On November 1st, a touching story emerged from a local animal rescue page in Southern California about a cat in dire need of help.
A woman discovered the severely neglected cat and took him to a nearby shelter for assistance. Due to his unkempt condition, the shelter staff affectionately named him “Old Man.”
He was immediately treated with antibiotics and eye ointments, while also provided with plenty of water to address his dehydration. Recognizing his urgent needs, volunteers quickly transferred him to a veterinarian for further care.
During the examination, the vet cleaned his wounds and identified abscesses on his neck and mouth. Blood tests were conducted, though it was clear they would need to be repeated to ensure his recovery.
Notably, Old Man tested positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), which wasn’t life-threatening but suggested a slower healing process.
Surprisingly, the vet revealed that this cat, despite his aged appearance, was just four years old. His tough life on the streets had prematurely aged him.
The rescue’s founder, Christine, found a connection between Old Man and her own journey in animal rescue, inspired by her dear Khalil, who had passed away shortly before what would have been his 14th birthday.
In Khalil’s memory and to reflect Old Man’s initially mistaken age, the cat was renamed “Fourteen.” Christine further supported his recovery by promising to match up to $500 in donations.
Fourteen was soon set up in a loving foster home to recover while awaiting further blood test results. Despite a sore mouth, he had a good appetite.
However, his health remained a concern, as he was anemic, and antibiotics were not successfully clearing his infection.
The veterinary team was particularly worried about his elevated white blood cell count and low counts of red blood cells and platelets, suggesting possible blood loss or bone marrow disease.
To stabilize him, Fourteen was administered pain relief and a new antibiotic, and another comprehensive blood test was ordered.
Despite his condition, Fourteen remained affectionate and cheerful, seeking attention and purring contently. The rescue organization, Love Your Feral Felines, updated supporters on his condition.
According to their latest report, a pathologist reviewed Fourteen’s blood results; although inconclusive, the cat showed signs of improvement.
He was maintaining his routine—eating, drinking, and using the litter box, appearing more alert and bright-eyed. With continued antibiotics and pain management, supporters were encouraged to keep hope alive as further results were awaited.
The story of Fourteen highlights the resilience and spirit of animals in need and the community’s efforts to provide care and support.
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