A few years ago, Marina and Josh decided to adopt their first cat, an 8-year-old named Trouble. After some tests, they learned he had diabetes. “We became experts at measuring his blood glucose and giving him insulin,” said Josh.
After a couple of years, it was time to add to their family. “We read that chronically ill cats, especially older ones, don’t get adopted,” they agreed, “so we made a commitment to adopt an older cat with diabetes.”
An online search led them to Tabby’s Place. After reviewing several profiles for diabetic cats, they fell for Viktor (his name at Tabby’s Place) and scheduled a time to meet him.
“When we arrived, he was in a chamber receiving treatment for his asthma. We knew right away this cat with one eye, a clipped ear, asthma, chronic rhinitis and diabetes belonged with us,” said Josh. They took him home one week later.
“We named him Theo because he reminded us of a sweet, little teddy bear,” they chimed in. “Nothing bothers Theo. He practically opens his mouth to take his medication. He’s so easy going.” He has his very own asthma chamber at home, which helps him feel better.
Theo goes by many names, including Nookie Monster for his ability to squeeze himself into his favorite nooks, Peepasaurus Rex, Little Peep, Theodore, Theo Baby and Teddy Bear.
“He’s the perfect little lump,” added Josh. “He plops down next to us and loves to snuggle in our arms. He’s just a big, loving mush on little legs.”
When he’s not cuddling with his parents or sharing their pillows each night, he’s working hard to obtain food. “Whenever he hears or smells food, he runs over and stares at us with his one eye. We give him a little Churu treat and eat dinner as a family,” they said. “And when new people come over, he leads them to his bowl hoping for more treats.”
“Because of his health issues, Theo snores and has cute sneezing fits. His nose is always stuffy, and he gets asthma attacks,” said Josh. “We make sure he gets great care and would give anything for him. He is our best friend,” they agreed.
Sweet, little Theo will sit on his back legs and wave a paw at you when he wants something. He also purr-meows or coos like a bird before dinner. Just don’t give him a toy, says Josh, “he doesn’t understand them and has no interest.”
As a permanent expression of their love and devotion to their boys, they have matching “TBL” tattoos, short for Trouble Boy and Theo Baby and their last name.
Josh and Marina urge others to consider adopting a cat with advanced needs. “Everyone wants a cute, cuddly kitten, but these older cats with illnesses are so sweet and deserving. Please consider giving them a chance. The love you’ll receive is so rewarding.”
Visit Tabby’s Place to learn how you can adopt, sponsor and help cats like Theo.
And now … a sweet smorgasbord of Theo videos and photos!
I love…love…love…LOVE these people! Thank you for this update and for loving the best cats ever. These advanced needs cats are so special and give unfathomable love!!! What great pics!!!