A poignant search is underway for a new retirement home for a gentle elderly cat who was heartbreakingly left behind when her owners moved away. Fourteen-year-old Edith holds the sad distinction of being the longest-stay resident at the Cats Protection Derbyshire Cat Centre after being discovered abandoned at a property in Burton.
A Heartbreaking Abandonment
Little is known about Edith's past, but her abandonment has left a deep mark. Centre Manager Helen Wood expressed profound sadness at the situation. "Although we don’t know the exact circumstances, it’s heartbreaking to think that poor Edith was just left behind without consideration for her well-being," she said. "Luckily, once discovered, we were able to step in and offer her a space."
The charity has issued a strong plea to pet owners facing difficult changes. "We urge anyone facing a change in circumstances to get in touch with us as early as possible," Helen urged. "We will do our best to work with you in the best interests of everyone before it reaches the point where the cat is just abandoned."
Learning to Trust Again
Edith has now been in care for over 100 days, a period necessary to fully assess her medical and emotional needs following her trauma. During her time with a volunteer fosterer and at the centre in Dalby Lees, Ashbourne, she has slowly begun to reveal her true, sweet nature.
"She has proved herself to be a sweet girl who revels in a fuss," Helen noted, indicating that with patience, Edith is learning to trust humans again. The team is now keen to see her settled into a permanent, loving home as soon as possible.
Managing Health with Care
Understandably for a cat of her age, Edith does have some ongoing health considerations that potential adopters need to be aware of.
- She has kidney issues, which are common in elderly felines, but these are easily managed with a special renal diet food that is widely available.
- She is also on a low dose of steroids to relieve gum soreness and ensure her comfort.
The centre staff will provide full guidance and talk through all aspects of her care regimen with any serious potential adopters to ensure a smooth transition.
The Perfect Home for Edith
Given her age and history, the team has a clear idea of the ideal environment for Edith's golden years. "While we don’t know what sort of home she has previously lived in, we think because of her age she would be best suited to a quiet household," Helen advised. "A peaceful home where she can snooze the day away in peace would be perfect for her."
The Derby adoption centre, which is Cats Protection’s busiest facility in the UK, currently houses upwards of 180 feline residents at any one time. Each cat is cared for by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers committed to their welfare.
To enquire about giving Edith her forever home, or to see the other cats available for adoption, please contact the centre directly.
