Owning a pet requires a lifetime commitment – at least the animal’s lifetime. You need patience, love, and in return you will get a loving and loyal pet. But some owners didn’t get that memo, and instead of giving an animal the best chance at life, they abandoned it. But, for one cat, a brighter future might just come from such a horrible past.

A feisty feline found herself in a scary situation after her previous family moved away from the United Kingdom, leaving her behind. As the new residents of the home began to hear a persistent meowing at their front door, they were met with the sight of a frail and bewildered cat that clearly needed help.

Honey stands next to toys at her foster home. Photo courtesy of the RSPCA

This newfound furry friend, dubbed Honey, soon caught the attention of compassionate souls who promptly reached out to the RSPCA, which is the largest animal welfare charity in the U.K., for help. The organization wasted no time in extending a helping hand, whisking Honey away to a local shelter.

Upon thorough examination, it was revealed that Honey was grappling with hyperthyroidism, shedding light on her emaciated appearance. However, with proper medical intervention and some tender and loving care, Honey’s condition improved significantly, setting the stage for her next chapter—a loving forever home.

(Honey) is now starting to become stressed and bored, which is beginning to affect her mental and physical wellbeing,” Cain said.

Despite her endearing disposition and playful spirit, Honey has yet to find her perfect match. Heather Cain, Chairman for the RSPCA Stourbridge and District branch, expressed concern over Honey’s prolonged stay at the shelter, emphasizing the toll it’s taking on her well-being. Honey has been in foster care now for over 200 days and has watched all our other cats go off to their new homes and start their new lives – she wonders why no one wants her,” Cain said. 

Honey. Photo courtesy of the RSPCA

As Honey eagerly awaits her chance at a fresh start, she will need to be the only pet, and also avoid young children, the RSPCA said. The 8-year-old tortoiseshell will need a quiet place where she can recover as well as get all the attention she needs, after being abandoned. With time and a little bit of love, Honey will make an amazing pet.

“Honey has blossomed into a loving girl and, despite being slightly older, she still enjoys a little play now and again and is young at heart,” Cain said. Throughout this has been a reminder that if you can’t take care of our pets any longer, there are other resources available besides abandoning them. You can reach out to your local animal shelters for guidance.

But for now, Cain and the charity are confident that Honey will thrive and be a happy pet, as long as an adopter is found for Honey that can give her the stability and affection she so desperately craves. “She just needs a family who will love her,” Cain said. For a look at how you can help out stray cats in your area, watch below.

Sources: The Dodo | Companion Life