Cats are known for their independence, enjoying their time outdoors and only coming home for food and bathroom breaks. This self-reliance makes them easy pets to care for. However, if cats are not regularly groomed, their fur can quickly become a problem.

Meet Hidey, a cat owned by someone with Alzheimer’s who was sadly neglected. Her owner was unable to take care of her, and she went without grooming for years. When animal rescuers discovered Hidey, they were shocked by her appearance. Her fur was matted and twisted, making her look like an octopus.

The Pittsburgh Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center estimated that Hidey had not received grooming for up to two years. Her fur had grown astonishingly long, measuring 6 to 8 inches.

Thankfully, veterinarian Jenn Levitzki came to Hidey’s rescue. She posted a video of the grooming process on Facebook, stating, “Hidey has the worst matting I have ever seen; she has dreadlocks.” To ensure Hidey’s comfort, she was gently sedated before the treatment.

“Our Medical team shaved off pounds of intertwined fur from her body, and needless to say, this cat is feeling so much better now!” shared the shelter on their Facebook page, as reported by People magazine.

After her incredible transformation, Hidey found a new home with a distant relative of her former owner. This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the importance of checking in on our elderly friends and their pets.

Visiting our elderly relatives and neighbors can make a significant difference in their lives. It’s essential to ensure both they and their pets are healthy and thriving. Sometimes, they may be struggling, and if we don’t ask, we might never know.

Let’s all take a moment to share this incredible rescue story with our family and friends. Together, we can spread the message of compassion and remind everyone to take care of our elderly loved ones and their furry companions.