You’ve come a long way, Baby.

Ask anyone who works or volunteers at Humane Colorado, and they’ll tell you the role comes with one very specific, universal risk (aka perk): At some point, you’re likely to bring at least one animal friend home with you. It’s difficult to resist when every day you see their beautiful faces, hear their epic stories, and come to know them as individuals. This was certainly the case when one of our amazing volunteers, Linda, met Baby, an older cat who came to us in need of tender loving care.

Baby was relinquished to Humane Colorado with five other cats who all came from a home with at least eight more. When Baby got here, he was in very rough shape. Our veterinarians immediately noticed scars and scabbing all over his body, redness and irritation on his front legs, and swelling so bad in his face that his eyes could barely open. During his four-and-a-half-month stay with us, Baby was diagnosed with and treated for a variety of ailments, including arthritis, an upper respiratory infection, ringworm (a fungal infection that impacts an animal’s skin, fur, and nails) and the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). He was also neutered and received a dental with extractions.

Over time, and with lots of love, Baby’s condition gradually improved, and he was cleared for adoption. Baby would need to be matched with adopters willing and able to care for his long-term health needs. Given his many hardships, we wanted to do everything we could to find him a loving home. Baby’s story was featured on local radio, and he made an appearance on TV to charm and encourage prospective adopters. And charm he did! “I visited with him a few times,” said Linda. “And I just totally fell in love with him.” When Linda took a break from volunteering to recuperate from an illness, she told herself, “If Baby is still there when I get back, I’m going to take him home.”

To Linda’s shock and delight, Baby was right where she left him – and he went home with her the very same day. Since then, Baby has been living his best life with Linda and her other pets. “Baby takes everything in stride. He’s very easygoing and very affectionate,” said Linda. Among Baby’s favorite activities are sitting in the sunshine, snuggling with Linda on the couch, begging for morsels, and grooming.

“Baby LOVES to clean himself [and other animals]. He has a habit of grooming with one leg straight in the air! He’s such a wonderful cat.” – Linda

Mostly, Baby brings joy to all who know him.

This article was originally published in the 2022 edition of Pet Tales. Catch up on the latest Pet Tales for more stories of healing, hope, and bright future for companion animals in Colorado.