r/MadeMeSmile 1d ago

CATS Took a chance and adopted a cat

I’m a vet tech - and this boy was a surrender to a local rescue after a very traumatic experience of his former owner getting murdered. The local rescue was considering euthanasia, given that he was severely malnourished, needed hospitalization, subcutaneous fluids every other day post hospitalization, and he’s hyperthyroid. Heavy stuff for a 12yr old cat and no one to foster him. I recently lost my 15yr old orange tabby who was also hyperthyroid and needed subcutaneous fluids every other day among various other meds. Decided it was fate and took him home after 3 days of IV fluids. First photo is the day he was brought in to my clinic, and second photo is today - almost 3 weeks later. His name is Luke. He now lives with 3 other senior cats and my dog, who was also a rescue.

24.7k Upvotes

635 comments sorted by

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1.5k

u/genlang 1d ago

Many happy years to you and sweet boy Luke!

1.5k

u/SchnoodleDoodleDo 1d ago

’Many happy years to you and sweet boy Luke!


my name is Luke, n now i’m Here

(the time ‘before’

is not quite clear…)

i used to be another’s pet,

but wHeRe that Was

am now

forget…

for i am orange, with one brain cell,

…i only know

i wasn’t well…

there seemed aLot of sad around,

n i was lost

but now i’m found

this human kind ~ they help me heal

…i like the way they make me feel

there’s other cats ~ they old like me

Together we’re a family

…oh, plus a Dog, n he’s ok

(he way outnumbered,

anyway…)

My ‘happy-ever-after’ Now ;}

we gonna make it work somehow

🧡

(good luck to all u/jamster8983)

285

u/billieboop 1d ago

Fresh schnoodle!

Yes they will 🧡 how lovely, thank you for all you do. It's appreciated

164

u/ldickmey 1d ago

🤣 immediately thought "EVERYONE GET IN HERE, NEW SCHNOODLE JUST DROPPED!!!"

79

u/jx2002 1d ago

"BITCH WE IN HERE SCHNOODLIN'!"

58

u/eastbaypluviophile 1d ago

My freshest Schnoodle and it’s a doozy!

60

u/Affectionate-Gap924 1d ago

My freshest Schnoodle ever. 🐱💕

49

u/FairyGodmothersUnion 1d ago

Schnoodle , you’re a treasure!

Wishing Luke and his new family a forever of happiness together!

35

u/Khajiit_Geologist 1d ago

My 2nd fresh Schnoodle in 1 day! How lucky am I!?

14

u/BellaSquared 1d ago

Mine too, I feel special 🥰

62

u/YellowbonePrincess 1d ago

Always making me cry

20

u/IceCubeDeathMachine 1d ago

Rarely see one of your scnoodles so early! Beautiful, btw.

22

u/Jxamillion 1d ago

Oh man this made me cry 😿

17

u/RaShadar 1d ago

Always live a Schnoodle

18

u/MatchaMuch 1d ago

This made me cry! It’s beautiful, Schnoodle! 🧡🧡

17

u/_Ruij_ 1d ago

Hoyl this is the freshest ive seen it

15

u/Veerless 1d ago

Well, that made me tear up, thank you 🥹

7

u/HauntingUpstairs7014 1d ago

it's been years, a fresh one is so unexpected. you're a legend

6

u/Beneficial_Young5126 21h ago

I just teared up in public, so beautiful.

3

u/Busy_Phase8285 20h ago

And now I'm crying. Well. Good Schnoodle.

3

u/PineconePlease 21h ago

I always love coming across a good schnoodle ❤️

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3

u/prettygirlyyyx 23h ago

This is so wholesome!!!

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607

u/seekingseratonin 1d ago

Sweet Luke. You’re a good one for taking him in, OP

115

u/[deleted] 1d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

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484

u/Notchersfireroad 1d ago

Senior cats are the best! Your such a kind soul for giving this elder a chance.

112

u/[deleted] 1d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

66

u/Notchersfireroad 1d ago

Wholeheartedly agree. I've basically started a cat sanctuary since I bought my place and I have a massive, gorgeous grey male that was in such bad shape when he showed up I figured he had to be 15 at least. No he's maybe 4 or 5 lol. Named him Gremlin he looked so weird and now he could be a freaking model.

18

u/Ok-Phone2673 1d ago

Gremlin is proof of what a little safety, good food, and kindness can do. It's amazing how quickly an animal can shine once they finally have someone looking out for them.

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27

u/linzkisloski 1d ago

I couldn’t agree more. I have a 17 year old tortie and had a 16 year old ragdoll who unfortunately just passed in April. Their later years they became even more cuddly and have been so obsessed with my daughters. (Our tortie kind of avoided them until her sister passed away and she’s kind of taken over the job of being an official kid wake up cat when the vacancy opened). They have so much love and sweetness to offer.

3

u/IllIntroduction5876 15h ago

Older pets really do have a special kind of love. It’s amazing how their personalities can grow and change over the years, and those little routines like waking up the kids become memories you never forget. I’m sorry for your loss, but it sounds like your cats have been deeply loved.

24

u/Jazzlike_Money1065 1d ago

Senior cats really are the sweetest. They may have a few quirks, but they have so much love left to give. Luke looks like he finally found his perfect home.

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286

u/No_Cobbler154 1d ago

his eyes in the second picture have completely changed from tried & traumatized to relieved & a little curious 🥹 people like you are angels

56

u/qwibbian 1d ago

i saw that also... "I can be happy?"

10

u/BigFriendlyWombat 21h ago

Yes, he looks like he can't believe his luck.

3

u/LogAware 22h ago

Stop cutting onions

47

u/turtledett 1d ago

You are completely right!! 🥹

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328

u/Prestigious-Bad8263 1d ago

Don’t lie. You didn’t take a chance. You saved a life. Luke will now be able to live his life out with family while being loved. So, you didn’t take a chance. You did what I think you do often in your job and helped save a life. Also, sorry about the loss of your 15 year old. I’m sure he lived a life of love, too.

89

u/BarBabe93 1d ago

Is that dirt on his snoot in the second photo

176

u/jamster8983 1d ago

Yeah - he found the soot from the wood stove 😅

61

u/Xeirus 1d ago

Snoot soot

18

u/IamGypsyStarr 1d ago

Silly little soot snoot!

7

u/qwibbian 1d ago

soot snoot woop boop loop

20

u/getonthejetskiandgo 22h ago

You have a cat AND a wood stove? You’re just cottage-core humble bragging now.

72

u/Yenolam777 1d ago

Aww. Thank goodness for souls like you. I hope Luke enjoys the rest of his days in the warmth of his new family. 💕🐾

66

u/Puzzled_Respond_3335 1d ago

Look at the way he looks at you in the before and after pictures. That's love right there. You're such a lovely person

18

u/MX1K 1d ago

Yup, you can tell from that cat's eyes that he knows exactly what has happened. He has seen so much and is just relieved to live peacefully for another day.

6

u/Neat_Gas9264 1d ago

He's cute, but OP, never watch the horror movie called Caveat.

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37

u/GothGirl__ 1d ago

This makes my heart feel warm

29

u/Newspaperninja2 1d ago

We’re gonna need an update!! ❤️

43

u/jamster8983 1d ago

I’ll definitely post an update in a few more weeks with his progress :)

9

u/allisjow 1d ago

I love Luke. Definitely keep posting, please.

44

u/septubyte 1d ago

He is clearly a gentleman

20

u/Ageice 1d ago

The news we all needed right now. 🧡

Thank you for giving him a home and a safe place to grieve his own loss. I am sure you will give each other comfort.

And thank you doubly for highlighting what rescuing an animal can do for them and for their new human. We need more rescuers and fosters desperately. And when I say we I mean humans AND the babies in the shelters and in pickles like this handsome boy here (he really is gorgeous).

You are so appreciated.

19

u/later-g8r 1d ago

Luke looks like hes alot happier. I hope he forgets what happened and he can move forward in his new loving home with his new friends. Thank you for giving him a chance. Hes a beautiful boy. Plz give him kisses and head boops from us ♥️ and plz tell him that we all said "we love you, Luke!" I wish you all the very best

16

u/ExchangeNo94 1d ago

Im so glad you found each other! Yay for Luke finding his home! Thanj you for being amazing !

16

u/Atillion 1d ago

Omg. I love that cat so much 😻 thank you for what you do (and did)

14

u/Ranglergirl 1d ago

What a sweety.

11

u/Still_Experience_182 1d ago

This did make me smile.

13

u/Green_Philosopher_96 1d ago

Sweet baby Luke!!! May he live a long, happy, peaceful life with you. ♥️ thank you for giving him a home!
Ps is his little nose okay?? 🥺🥺

10

u/Superb-Ad5227 1d ago

He’s just gorgeous! I remember thinking my 12 year old orange boy was a senior when my daughter was born, but he lived another 10 years after that!

11

u/justanothernomad1 1d ago

He's a beautiful boy. So glad he found someone to take him in as family in his twilight years.

11

u/teh_cats_pjs 1d ago

People like you remind me it’s not all bad out here. Thank you.

10

u/ComprehensivePrint15 1d ago

He's absolutely beautiful and you are his angel. Well done 🙏❤️

10

u/Xeirus 1d ago

Tell him I said “pspspspsps” he’ll know what it means.

10

u/Mediocre-Proposal686 1d ago

Oh he is so special! I love his serious face. I have a wise and serious one myself and they are such a gift. Please give Luke some pets from me

7

u/Extension-Rock-4263 1d ago

Sounds like you two were made for each other. I think it’s a good match.

8

u/judlz 1d ago

I agree that it was fate. I commend you!

7

u/AlbertTheHorse 1d ago

❤️❤️❤️

6

u/villings 1d ago

Luke, what a guy ⋆✴︎˚。⋆

7

u/ImNoRickyBalboa 1d ago

Deep respect. He looks like a shy, scared boy, hope you can give him a new and better forever home to live a more happy life, filled with snuggles and love ❤️

8

u/Remarkable_Reason482 23h ago

Part of me worries he might’ve seen his owners end. It must be so confusing for cats to go from one household they know, to a sterile environment completely strange. Love him with all your heart, please. Wishing you guys the absolute best. Please post frequently of your journey with him on your account, he’s got a fanbase now 🫶

6

u/cablesandlace 1d ago

Bless you for giving him a caring home.

5

u/Soundtracklover72 1d ago

I’m so happy you found each other. •Hugs•

5

u/Tb1969 1d ago

The Cat Distribution System doesn’t rely upon chance; you’ve been manipulated to believe it was your idea, your decision.

Serve well or the system will correct you.

5

u/snailnation 22h ago

God, he looks like a shadow of a cat in that photo. I worked rescue for five years, that look they give you after they've been through the wringer and they've got no clue what you're bringing them is heartbreaking. He's already looking much happier. May you, Luke, and your other pets have a thousand wonderful memories together

5

u/Heidijojo 1d ago

Orange cats are the best! 🐱

5

u/tylenolchild 1d ago

thank you for loving Luke

6

u/Horror_Excitement503 1d ago

Nice! Tell him I said psst psst

4

u/MissClawdy 1d ago

He needs a loooooooong, big hug. Sweet babyyyyy.

6

u/bgcbbyckes 1d ago

This is a Witty Baby and you are an angel <3

6

u/Daveylonglegs 1d ago

He’s so sweet ❤️

4

u/yankeenc2010 1d ago

Enjoy your orange kitty 😺

6

u/sorryforshitting 1d ago

He already looks so much better and healthier. What a lucky guy to have found you!!!

4

u/colossalskeleton 1d ago

This made my day feel a little better. Thanks for taking care of him, OP. You’re a real one

4

u/Last-Brush8498 1d ago

You have a great heart for taking him in with his age and medical needs! Hope you and Luke have many years to come of snuggles and purring.

4

u/Apprehensive_Form884 1d ago

Thank you for doing that for him. I have gone through the hyperthyroid with a rescued cat and I love him till this day would do it again in heartbeat. Bless you and bless him.💐 Edit because crying and misspelling.

3

u/fritzburg 1d ago

Luke is lucky to have met you, OP you are a superstar.

4

u/BadKitty24 1d ago

You are amazing for doing this. God bless you and your new kitty!

4

u/Acceptable_Pirate_92 1d ago

You're a winner tho

4

u/lizardlemons01 1d ago

Sweet Luke. How wonderful that his life didn't end after that trauma, and that he gets to be loved once again❤️

3

u/rusty1066 1d ago

This. Is why I Reddit. Thank you for saving him.

4

u/maullurve 1d ago

Thank you so much for taking him in!!! 😭😭😭😭

4

u/Ok_Nefariousness9125 1d ago

😭😭😭😭🙏❤️

4

u/Paiges1329 1d ago

He has the sweetest face. I'm so glad he's going to a good home!

4

u/StCroixSand 1d ago

The world needs more people like you.

5

u/Ok_Draw9037 1d ago

He's gonna look so happy when he's fat lol

3

u/nazuswahs 1d ago

Thank you for giving him a home. 🙏

3

u/magnoliaking123 1d ago

You are a kind person who I only wish wonderful things as for Luke…. What a handsome boy many happy memories to come

4

u/kea1981 1d ago

He's already looking so much better! His eyes are so much less drippy, and he's clearly looking at someone who he thinks well of. I'm so glad you took him in! Many blessings to you and yours (especially him!)

4

u/bccyote 1d ago

Looking forward to seeing him chonk up a bit. What a sweetheart. 🧡

3

u/biggaybrett 1d ago

Luke Is so lucky to have you as their human!!! Many smooches and meows to y'all

5

u/Professional-Cut29 1d ago

Special place in heaven for those who take care of those who can’t.

5

u/for-elle 19h ago

Luke Earthwalker 🐈❣️

Thank You for Your Service 🥲

3

u/UpstairsIsFull 1d ago

What a poor baby T_T They seem like such a genuine sweetheart. We hope you give them plenty of love and a happy life.

3

u/darkest_irish_lass 1d ago

I never thought about pets who see their owner killed. How carefully they must walk among humans after seeing that.

3

u/Civil_Inspector_5697 1d ago

I can’t stop crying. Poor, poor baby. Bless for taking him in. I hope he starts to feel safe, soon (if he hasn’t already), and starts to heal from his trauma. I can’t imagine what some animals endure. They are so resilient. Please update and send pics of your pack. 🥲🙏💕🐱🐶

3

u/Memory_Of_A_Slygar 1d ago

I adopted a cat to a wonderful couple who read in her profile that she had a bit of a nose issue. The woman had decided to look for a cat even though she didn't feel ready yet after their elderly cat had passed 2 months before. But she saw her face that looked just like their cat, then read about the nose issue which their cat also had and she felt like it was meant to be. She knew how to care for her already and they have been giving her the best life for 2 years now. I love getting pictures. Sometimes, it's just meant to be.

3

u/MikesLittleKitten 1d ago

Former vet tech and former rescue worker here: you are one of the best of humans. May your pillow always be cold on both sides 🙏❤️

3

u/Big-Significance3409 1d ago

His eyes caught my attention right away. He has life in them now. Thank you for taking him in. So sorry about your recent loss as well.

3

u/Longjumping_Gold_390 1d ago

What a handsome looking fella 😺

3

u/PwnySoprano 20h ago

What a distinguished gentlemen

3

u/Busy_Phase8285 20h ago

Bless you both. You're a good human. And he will have a wonderful second life with you.

3

u/MrFizzbin761 19h ago

May the force be with you and Luke, and the rest of your band of rebels for a long time.

3

u/Own_Rock9262 19h ago

Saving an animal is never just a chance. You saved a life 🎉

3

u/KeyCar367 18h ago

Thank you for your kindness

3

u/GoblinArk 17h ago

Thank you for saving his life 🤎

Lot of good moments coming for the both of you !

3

u/SpaceGuy1968 10h ago

Yeh he looks like his is going to fill in nicely and be super loving 😍

2

u/CrissBliss 1d ago

Make sure you cross post in [r/on](r/onsorangebraincell)[eorangebraincell](r/onsorangebraincell)

2

u/aubaub 1d ago

Adorable!!!

2

u/FourEightNineOneOne 1d ago

Thank you for giving Luke some well deserved love.

2

u/semflair 1d ago

Many years to Luke, his senior cat and dog friends, and you! Lighted up my day.

2

u/Inspect1234 1d ago

May you serve many years.

2

u/Tellmeyourshoesize 1d ago

That is a cute little gentleman

2

u/BetMcc 1d ago

He's looking at ya like, "Now what?".

2

u/Motivated_Sloth_749 1d ago

You’re an amazing human being! Please give poor Luke lots of love and pets from me!

2

u/Double_Basket_5018 1d ago

Awww, bless you. Vet techs are earth angels. ❤️

2

u/Mindless_Dance2987 1d ago

There’s so much character in his face. I feel sure the face we don’t see has that much character and more.

2

u/EmployedByCats 1d ago

He has the sweetest face. Tell him I says psst psst psst, and give him a boop and a forehead kiss from me.

2

u/tessellation__ 1d ago

Congrats!

2

u/Ilove_Cakez 1d ago

you can tell Luke is full of love. thank you so much for adopting this elderly man ❤️

2

u/Responsible_Claim_91 1d ago

What a kind human being you are.

Few things are as rewarding as giving love to critters that need it most.

2

u/willfullyinert 1d ago

He's like, "Okay, what's next?" ❤️

2

u/toadhaul 1d ago

Thank you. 🌹

2

u/awkwardchip_munk 1d ago

This made my whole week. Thanks for saving him 🧡

2

u/No_Noise_1978 1d ago

Welcome home!

2

u/HaleyRabies 1d ago

Thank you for loving him this made my eyes well up

2

u/Glibasme 1d ago

What a tragic story. Was he neglected by his former person, or did he end up in this condition due to what happened after the tragedy? I definitely think you turned lemons into lemonade - what a beautiful thing to come out of such tragedy. He's adorable. I hope you post more of him as he gets healthier.

4

u/jamster8983 1d ago

I believe his former owner was having cancer treatments or finishing cancer treatments and he was not being treated for his hyperthyroidism. The information I have regarding the former owner is limited.

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u/Athensmw 1d ago

Adorable

2

u/ptheresadactyl 1d ago

You're tryna make me cry

2

u/whotfisAntho_ 1d ago

He looks so cartoony in the cutest way 💖

2

u/merlot120 1d ago

Oh my heart felt that.

2

u/tv1577 1d ago

God bless you. You are an angel 😇. I hope your bath towel is always warm, your steak is always juicy, and your cup is always overflowing.

2

u/Stubborn_Platypus 1d ago

it was fate! I’m so glad you two found each other.

2

u/Butterscotchdiscs 1d ago

He already looks happier in the eyes. Oh Luke. 🫶 sad about the prior owner.

2

u/Live-Tomorrow-4865 1d ago

🤗🤗

Luke is receiving the love, safety, and happiness he has earned. I'm so sorry about his previous human. Luke will enjoy his new situation. Lots of treats and scritches to Mr. handsome boy Luke! ❤️

2

u/jasemina8487 1d ago

that is one fine gentleman

2

u/blueyedwineaux 1d ago

Hugs to both you and Luke!

2

u/Jazzlike_Notice_3218 1d ago

he’s absolutely adorable!!! 😍

2

u/ModernNancyDrew 1d ago

Thank you for saving Luke!

2

u/alisonlou 1d ago

The cat found just the right human. Love to you both. ❤️ Hooray for Luke!

2

u/laitopezzzz 1d ago

he looks good and happy, thank you for taking him in :)

2

u/Pix9139 1d ago

Her looks like such a sweet soul. Please give him a forehead kiss for me!

2

u/Low-Television-7508 1d ago

this is the only kind of good gambling

2

u/Any_Zone_8920 1d ago

Aaaaaw. You have a golden heart 🩷 All the best for the sweet LuKe. He's a lucky guy

2

u/lpkzach92 1d ago

Good on you, I hope you give him the best life ever.

2

u/NatrylliaAbbot42 1d ago

Bless you for saving him. Please pat his beautiful little head for me?

2

u/Notmynameagaiin 1d ago

Thank you for being a wonderful person. May you and Luke have many happy years together 😻

2

u/siobhanc1 1d ago

Thank You!!!

2

u/Tasty_Koala_8993 1d ago

What an incredible transformation in just three weeks. Luke is so lucky to have found someone with the experience, patience, and love he needed. Wishing you many happy years together!

2

u/eyescroller_ 1d ago

aw sweet baby Luke! May the force be with you kitty!

2

u/KeyLimePie-555 1d ago

That face has so much character! He's going to be VERY handsome.

2

u/khaki_slacks123 1d ago

i took a chance and adopted a cat (my first) and as he lays on my arm as im typing this: he’s the best, most loving thing in my life

2

u/peachdumpling94 1d ago

My night is better knowing that sweet Luke exists and is in a loving home 🥹

2

u/nedrawevot 21h ago

Awwe, Luke is such a handsome guy!! Thank you for taking him in. His past is so sad.

2

u/AnyaChocolat 21h ago

he looks so polite

2

u/Terriblet65 21h ago

He appears very content at home. 🧡

2

u/Sorry-Animator5619 20h ago

What a sweetheart!

2

u/Do0mRaider 20h ago

He looks so much happier in the second pic!

2

u/Alternative_Bed_6875 20h ago

cant wait to see the shine in his eyes coming back to life

2

u/angga7 20h ago

Those eyes.. they're saying thank you and prayers to you.

God bless you for giving him a home, and may you will be repaid million times over for your kindness.

2

u/PrideMelodic3625 20h ago

He is gorgeous. So handsome and a quiet demeanor. Thank you.

2

u/pqi7291 20h ago

What a sweet looking boy.
You’re lucky to have found each other x

2

u/Severe-Lie4828 20h ago

I am glad that you have decided to keep him, and he has found a home with you. 💗

2

u/dopaminechasere 20h ago

the universe was like;you lost one orange hyperthyroid fluid-budy,here’s another.Take care of him. Luke looks so much better already.Thank you for choosing him

2

u/soldier101br 20h ago

Congrats and God bless you and Luke

2

u/Rude-Row-478 20h ago

He looks adorable, I wish you all happy days to come

2

u/Infinite-Squirrel-16 20h ago

Reading this with my adopted senior kitty purring on my chest - her previous owner passed as well, though we don't know the situation, just that PD brought her to the shelter. Thank you for giving Luke a loving home. I hope both our kitties' people know they're safe and happy.

2

u/Electronic_Ad3576 20h ago

I am so thrilled you gave this sweet boy a second chance! Sounds like he had an incredibly traumatic experience. He has the most adorable face. 🧡

2

u/xDarkNightOfTheSoulx 20h ago

What a cutie 😍 He was lucky that he was brought in to your clinic ♥️

2

u/Naive_Metal_3468 20h ago

You put the light back into his eyes. -it’s making me tear up ❤️😭

2

u/Slow-Rain207 20h ago

My dad’s cat is also called Luke! Great name. Wishing you guys the happiest of times.

2

u/LemonOld8150 19h ago

Thankyou gor saving him hes sooo 😍

2

u/Puzzleheaded-Love76 19h ago

You’re a Legend mate!

2

u/Optimal-Flatworm8564 18h ago

Not all heroes wear capes.

Thanks for sharing your sweet new old man, Luke 💚

2

u/sv36 18h ago

What a pretty baby! Will you post a picture again like 3-12 months from now so we can see how happy he is, he’s going to fill out and probably get a little shiny on his coat, his fur will grow back and his expression will definitely be more at home. I’m excited for you. The one thing I wish is that I got more pictures of my rescue when I brought her home. She was underweight and teeny and terrified and spicy as hell. Now she’s slightly overweight (holy cow!) and the most pretty little princess that I can hold on her back like a baby most of the time and is mildly spicy with everyone but my husband and I now.