A breeder had been finding it difficult to properly care for her elderly cats for some time and wanted to have them all put down. Strawberry does not judge, and we urge anyone who is struggling with their pedigree cats to contact us sooner rather than later. Strawberry was notified and arranged to pick them up as a matter of urgency. Upsettingly, two of the cats were suffering too badly to be saved, and it was agreed that the kindest thing to do would be to put them to sleep. It was the opinion of the vet that Maisie and Mavis, although badly matted, flea-ridden and underweight (they had been fed on dog food), might be able to be treated successfully.

Poor Maisie, with a white coat and different coloured eyes, had a mouth full of rotten teeth, but this didn’t stop her talking for most of her journey to Strawberry! Mavis was in a far worse state, and the transport volunteer wasn’t sure she would survive the journey to the fosterer. As well as rotten teeth, her gums were bleeding and she had scarred, ulcerated corneas, from many years of entropian (where the eyelashes grow inwards, scratching the eyeball). Strawberry funded full dentals for both cats, and entropian surgery for Mavis. Once recovered, she was able for the first time in years to open her eyes without pain! We also de-flea’ed and wormed them, de-matted their coats, and ensured they were up to date with vaccinations. Mavis perked up and proved to be a squeaky, loving little girl!

It took several months and thousands of pounds to nurse these cats back to health. At Strawberry, we believe every cat deserves a chance, even if it is elderly. Maisie and Mavis were adopted together, and as you can see, now have a lovely home and a loving owner – it’s hard to believe these are the same cats as in the ‘before’ photos!