Taos came to us from a shelter that loved him dearly.Although they handed him off to us with tears, their choice was a loving decision based on the knowledge that they were unequipped to care for his puzzling condition: intractable diarrhea accompanied by weight loss. Taos’ human friends at the other shelter were utterly smitten with him and didn’t want to consider letting him go, so they patiently did their best by him for a year while he moved up on our waiting list.

We are thrilled that Taos’ space at Tabby’s Place opened up, for he is truly a delight.We knew this was a special spirit from the tearful goodbyes of his fan club at the other shelter, and he’s only shown his sweetness more since his arrival. Sweet Taos has moved into Suite A, where we feed a hypoallergenic diet, which can help alleviate diarrhea.In his brief time at Tabby’s Place, Taos’ tummy troubles have baffled our vet and a consulting radiologist.While we’ve had great success treating diarrhea in other cats with medication and prescription diet, this two-pronged attack has been unsuccessful for Taos. A recent ultrasound of his abdomen revealed a further layer of mystery, puzzling even the specialist vet: about 2/3 of Taos’ descending colon has very thick walls. But the diameter of his colon is not enlarged, as would be the case with megacolon.Under other circumstances, we’d suspect cancer, but as Taos has bravely endured this condition for years, that’s highly unlikely.

Taos’ next adventure will involve consultation with an internal medicine veterinarian.This will probably lead to biopsies, which, we hope, will guide us in how to keep him as comfortable, healthy and happy as possible.We know that Taos’ fan club will swell with new members.A first-class fan of human affection and a genuinely sweet soul, our adorable buff boy will need all the friends he can get as we continue exploring our options for his befuddling condition. We hope that a special adopter will fall in love with Taos, as we have, but until that day of happy tears comes, your kind support will help us to give Taos the life he deserves.