When you’re 21 years old, you deserve comfort, warmth, and love – not to be left behind. But for Tigger, a senior cat nearing the end of his life, abandonment is exactly what he faced. Left at a local vet clinic by his owner, Tigger waited with hope in his eyes, believing someone would come back for him. But the person he trusted most never returned.
Tigger’s future looked bleak, but fate had something beautiful in store. While his tiny heart was heavy with confusion, his life was about to take a wonderful turn. In his quiet days at the shelter, Tigger had no idea someone special would see his story and change everything.
That someone was Adriene Buisch (also known as Nicole), a kind-hearted woman who stumbled across Tigger’s story online. The moment she saw him, she knew she had to bring him home. Learning about his health struggles didn’t discourage her—if anything, it only deepened her resolve to make his final days magical.
Tigger was battling kidney failure and had a large tumor the size of a golf ball. He was frail, underweight, and his fur was matted and patchy. But Adriene saw beyond the pain. She saw the spirit of a cat who still had joy to live for. She immediately placed him on a special diet and gave him all the medical care he needed. Slowly, Tigger gained weight, and his fur began to grow back, soft and full once more.
Despite his health issues, Tigger found joy again. Adriene was amazed by his strength, sharing:
“Though he has kidney failure, and we found a tumor, he kicks it like a 12-year-old. We decided to create a bucket list full of random adventures for him. Though it might not be much to others, all the little trips outside are a blast for him because he loves to be outdoors… the beach being his favorite so far.”
Tigger embraced every moment. From beach days to backyard strolls, he soaked in the sunshine and the love that Adriene poured into him. He knew she had saved him, and he responded with endless affection. Tigger became a source of inspiration, showing that even in your final chapter, life can be filled with joy.
Adriene reflected on their journey together:
“He has forever changed our hearts and will hopefully change the hearts of others when it comes to adopting older pets!”
Tigger’s story is a powerful reminder of the beauty in giving senior pets a second chance. Older cats may not have years ahead, but they have endless love to give. In return, they fill your heart with something truly special.
If you’re considering adding a new feline friend to your family, think about this: adopt older cats. It might just change your life—the same way Tigger changed Adriene’s.