An Octopussy

Paul could not believe his eyes. He was not sure as if what he saw was a cat or an octopus residing there? Initially though frightened, Paul gathers courage and caress the strange animal. The animal shuddered but later calmed as well. It had long tentacles like things all over the body. It had a face like that of a cat. Was it an octopussy? Whatever, it might have been, but it was quite sure that the old man completely forgot about it.

The Forgotten Creature

Alzheimer’s is a destructive disease for anyone to face. It is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder where the patient loses his thinking skills and memory. With time it even becomes challenging for him to carry out his easiest daily chores. Having a pet to look after makes life even tough. Surely, the disease made the old man lose the sight of his cats.

A  Calico Cat

It was a poor cat, who has been unkempt which led to her deteriorated condition today.  This was Russell’s relative’s second cat which the neighbors were talking about. What Paul mistook for a blanket and ‘Octopussy’ was actually the cat’s own hair. They had matted and entangled over the years and appeared like dreadlocks.

The Poor Fellow

It was quite conclusive that the old man due to his disease had absolutely lost the track of this Calico cat. Paul felt pity towards the creature. Her condition bothered him. She appeared to be overweight and seemed to be in a lot of pain.  Paul and his wife Jill were sensitive to these beings. They were compassionate toward her and wanted to help her. They decided to name the cat Hidey and consult a Veterinary Physician for both the cats.

What Next?

The cats were scared of the new caretakers. Siam, however, adapted quickly to the new environment; but Hidey would run away. She would be hiding under the beds and in the corners. It was quite evident that the cat was in a lot of pain and was traumatized. Paul and Jill paid special attention to Hidey. They could not wait to help the being and get her out of pain. Once they were able to gain the cat’s trust, they took the cats to the Animal Rescue League & Wildlife Shelter in Pittsburgh.

An Unusual Condition

The vet too was tensed to see such a condition of the cat. He pointed out that the cats must be some 17-18 years old. Siam just needed a regular healthcare treatment, but Hidey, her condition was worrying. The poor cat’s hair has entangled to an extreme extent. They have turned into long dreadlocks of approximately 8 inches in length. The vet and his team had to search online for a treatment as they never witnessed such a case. Even after extensive research, they could not find a case similar to this. Now, they only relied upon their knowledge to find a cure for this helpless cat.