This neglected cat with a ‘one-eye loving stare’ found an amazing new home despite its special needs

This neglected special-needs cat with a neurological condition was rescued from suffering in a filthy house. Who could know that the pet feline’s life would take an unexpected turn thanks to a ‘unique connection’ with Maggie?

Rescued from a horror house

A sweet-natured female cat, Tomato, was found living in horrendous conditions together with 30 other animals, including 10 cats. The rescue team from the ASPCAhad to wear respirators to remove poor pets from the property due to ‘a strong odour in the home, along with high levels of ammonia and dirty surfaces everywhere’.

The distressed feline urgently needed medical attention. An initial examination saw Tomato ‘underweight with a dirty hair coat’. She also had an ear infection and ear mites that caused her intense pain and itchiness, a common issue with neglected cats in overcrowded populations. Tomato was also suffering from neurological issues, possibly a result of her ear infection.

Dr Alison Liu, an ASPCA Forensic Vet, said:

Her head tilted and she walked in circles with an uncoordinated gait and wobbly legs. That was concerning because her lack of balance could affect her quality of life.

Despite a course of antibiotics to treat her ear infection, the adorable kitty may never get rid of her balance problems. Dystonia movement disorder, or vestibular disease, is a reason behind her tilting head.

On top of that, the vets had to remove Tomato’s left eye to prevent future complications and discomfort.

‘A unique connection’

Despite multiple medical issues, Tomato stayed a cute, sweet, and affectionate pet.

Marny Nofi, Director of Feline Behaviour at the ASPCA, said:

Tomato was sometimes quiet and reserved, potentially due to her medical issues. But she clearly enjoyed interacting with the cats she met. She enjoyed being around people and would greet people at the door of her cat condo.

As the kitty needed a loving home, the ASPCA matched her with the best owner she could get.

After losing her last two cats to old age and sickness, Maggie K. missed having a feline companion, so she began to foster kittens. She also searched for a cat to adopt and was drawn to the profile of a young, one-eyed, brown tabby.

Maggie had a neurological disorder that occasionally made her a little wobbly. She felt a unique connection to Tomato and adopted her.

She said:

I don’t mind cats who are a bit of work or are a bit different. I was willing to welcome a cat with a disability.

Maggie and Tomato bonded in no time. The owner sometimes calls her ‘Captain Tomato’ for her pirate swagger and one-eyed loving stare.

According to Maggie, who has fostered more than 20 cats, Tomato will always have another cat or kitten around. She will never be alone again.

Maggie finds it incredibly rewarding to see abandoned cats and kittens transform into ‘such loving creatures’ and advises all would-be adopters to keep an open mind for unique connections like she has with Tomato.

She added:

There is a cat for everyone.

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