One ordinary day, a man associated with the rescue Flatbush Cats set out to buy cat litter but ended up with an unexpected companion. On his way, he came across a scruffy, lethargic cat with dirty fur, scratches on his face, and labored breathing. Recognizing the signs of a cat in distress, he couldn’t walk away without helping. To be certain the cat wasn’t someone’s lost pet, he asked around the neighborhood. Neighbors confirmed that the cat, later named Winston, had been seen wandering outside for weeks.
Determined to get him to safety, the rescuer quickly returned home to grab a carrier and some food. Approaching stray cats can be challenging, especially if they’re wary of humans. However, Winston was surprisingly calm. The man moved carefully and patiently, easing Winston into the carrier without the need for trapping techniques, which can be essential for cats that are more skittish.
Once safely indoors, Winston immediately showed he was no stranger to being inside. He explored his new surroundings with ease and settled in quickly. Despite his confidence, Winston was in desperate need of care. His intake began with flea and deworming treatments, a routine step for any cat rescued from the streets. Because of his heavily matted fur and flea infestation, the man decided to give Winston a bath—a rare but necessary measure for adult cats in such conditions. “Let’s just say neither of us enjoyed it,” he joked in the video below.
Winston’s medical checkup revealed several health concerns, including coccidia, Giardia, ringworm, and mild lung inflammation that could indicate asthma. With medication, rest, and plenty of care, Winston began his recovery. Within days, his energy returned, and his appetite improved.
After a few weeks in foster care, Winston underwent a stunning transformation. His fur became clean and bright, his scratches healed, and all his parasite issues were resolved. Winston was no longer the scrappy street cat struggling to survive—he was ready for a fresh start.
These poor kitties were rescued from an animal cruelty case where they were starved, locked in cages with inches of feces, and received no water or food. Now, these cats need your help!
Before long, Winston found his forever home, where he now enjoys the comforts of a VIP life. Today, Winston is thriving, surrounded by love and care, leaving his tough days on the streets far behind.