Part of urban life is witnessing animals—even house cats—going about their business below skylines of concrete and steel. Many people care for pampered outdoor cats that always have a comfortable place to call home where they can find food, water, shelter, and love. Yet, some cats coexist with other feline friends among the metropolitan hustle and bustle, discovering safe spots under bridges and in back alleys across the city.
However, a two-year-old Tabby named Harry is not one of these cats. Although he's had to live life on the streets for a while, his real passion is centered on loving attention and kneading soft blankets.
On March 9, officers from the Richmond Animal Control received calls from concerned citizens about a sickly-looking cat roaming the streets and alleys as a stray. Quickly, the cat was picked up and transported to the Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) for much-needed medical treatment.
Story written by Alex Lemieux.
When the cat arrived, he was missing most of the hair from his midsection, down to his hind legs and tail. After ruling out parasites or fungus, they believe the severe hair loss was caused by stress-related over-grooming or flea allergy dermatitis. The caretakers at RACC named the young domestic shorthair Harry to give him a stroke of luck in growing his hair back.
In the weeks since Harry arrived, he's been showing signs of his mane coming back strong, but it will take time and a continuation of his healthy, skin-sensitive diet.
RACC Outreach Coordinator Robin Young said, "He's had a rough street life and will appreciate a soft bed." It's become very clear to her that Harry "wants to be a pampered indoor cat."
Harry always makes his loving caretakers and passersby laugh as he romps and rubs on any surface in goofy ways. As well, he's showing that he's a very curious cat that loves to explore the different sights and smells around him. Of course, until Harry has had his fair share of new experiences and nestles down in his bed to receive pets and rubs, kneading his way to relaxation.
"He's just so sweet and affectionate," Robin remarked. "We see our fair share of neglect, especially cats that have had a rough life, so he will appreciate a nice, cozy home.
Harry is set on making a full recovery from his hair loss and is enjoying being fed all the meals a day he can take in from the dedicated RACC staff. Nevertheless, he's ready for adoption and looking forward to making his new family very happy with tenderness and love.
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