The rescue of an elderly cat who was heartbreakingly abandoned by its family because of the birth a baby highlighted the importance and role that animal shelters have in the fight for animal welfare. Love 4 Paws found the cat named Xena in a dire state. Her matted hair was oozing with urine and feces and she was severely underweight.
While numerous reasons exist for pet surrenders – with behavior issues, housing problems, and financial constraints being common factors, as indicated in a 2024 *Animals* journal study analyzing relinquishment records – Xena’s case revealed a deeper issue of neglect. Xena was taken to the vet by the team of Love 4 Paws Rescue, who discovered that she suffered from an untreated sternum injury. This chronic injury likely resulted from past trauma. It made Xena’s situation even more difficult.
Xena showed her resilient spirit despite her past trauma and challenges as a senior cat who had a pre-existing illness. Love 4 Paws Rescue described Xena as a social and affectionate companion who was eager to receive attention. The surgery was not recommended due to the age of the dog and because the old sternum injury did not cause her any pain. However, this discovery highlighted the neglect she had suffered.
Love 4 Paws Rescue will now provide Xena, the dog, with all of the attention and care that she needs. They will also address her liver issue, UTI problem, coccidia infection, as well as help her to gain weight. The matted hair has been removed with care, giving Xena a new start.
Xena’s tale has been shared widely on social networks, and serves as a powerful reminder about the important work that animal rescue organisations do every day. Love 4 Paws Rescue wants to give Xena the loving care she’s always deserved, and also educate people about senior cats. Xena has a bright future as a family is already waiting to adopt her when she regains health.
The tragic case of Xena highlights animal abuse and neglect, but it also encourages local rescues to help animals like Love 4 Paws Rescue. These groups work to better the lives of animals who are vulnerable and encourage responsible pet ownership. Love 4 Paws Rescue wants to share Xena’s story in order to raise awareness of the problems faced by shelters for animals and encourage others to take action, either through donation, volunteer work, or adoption.