A cat that was found on the street exhausted, scarred, and dangerously thin won hearts online after its rescuer shared his stunning transformation.
After months of care, Orion, a British shorthair, was flourishing in a home where an entirely different side of his personality had emerged.
What's happening?
Orion's caregiver shared his story and pictures on Reddit in its r/BeforeNAfterAdoption community. He was found as a stray by an acquaintance of the original poster's hairdresser, who believed he had been abandoned.
Since then, Orion's journey transformed him from a malnourished, sick cat into a healthy, playful companion.
Though the original poster had reservations about taking in a cat, Orion's condition changed her mind.
"He had scars, was really skinny for a British shorthair, and had a tiny amount of energy to even walk," the OP explained. "Plus, he was … very underdeveloped … had calicivirus, diarrhea, and such."
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For about a month, caring for him meant constant trips to the vet. A veterinarian said he "would've died if he didn't have treatment."
Once his health improved, the adopter said she fell in love with him. Orion was later rehomed with her cat-loving dad, and he has kept recovering and grown into his personality.
"Our beloved Orion had gained weight; is going to vet checkups regularly; and became a very lovely, playful and cocky boy," the OP stated.
Why does it matter?
Even a bred cat can still end up abandoned, hurt, malnourished, and in urgent need of care.
Orion's case involved multiple health problems, and his recovery required time, money, and consistent veterinary care. In his case, untreated illness almost became life-threatening.
But with treatment, patience, and a stable home, a cat that once barely had the strength to move became confident, comfortable, and full of personality.
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