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What’s more wholesome than adorable photos of cats? I know, not much. But let me raise you this: adorable before and after photos of rescue cats when they have first been adopted and after they have adjusted to their new, luxurious lifestyles. That’s right, folks. We’ve gone through the “Before and After Pictures of Adopted Animals” subreddit to gather some of the cutest photos of kitties that have had miraculous transformations all thanks to a little tender love and care. 

Be sure to upvote all of your favorite photos, and let us know in the comments if you’ve ever rescued a fur baby who had a radical transformation after receiving your love. Keep reading to also find interviews with Heather Svoboda Miller, Communications and Development Manager of the Cat Adoption Team, and Ruth Allen, Director of Admissions and Matchmaking at the ASPCA Adoption Center. And then if you’re interested in checking out even more of these heartwarming pics that scream "adopt don't shop", you can find Bored Panda’s previous articles on the same subreddit here and here.

#1

Smokey Was Abandoned By Her Momma Cat And Was Really Sick. We Didn’t Plan On Nursing A Sick Kitten Back To Health But I’m So Glad We Did. 3 Weeks vs. 7 Months Old

Smokey Was Abandoned By Her Momma Cat And Was Really Sick. We Didn’t Plan On Nursing A Sick Kitten Back To Health But I’m So Glad We Did. 3 Weeks vs. 7 Months Old

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It is really amazing what a bath, some love and a safe home can do for a cat. Aside from looking cleaner, fluffier and a bit bigger in the belly area, many of these cats simply look happier as well. And thankfully, many people around the world have gotten behind the “adopt don’t shop” mindset. The Before and After Pictures of Adopted Animals subreddit has 1.1 million members at the moment and describes itself as “a place to share the amazing difference a loving family can make on an abandoned or mistreated animal”. 

The page also notes that all pets are welcome, but today we’re here to celebrate the felines. And this subreddit does great work in raising awareness for how wonderful pet adoption can be. If you’ve ever adopted a fur baby before, you are probably well aware of how many are sitting in shelters awaiting loving homes. But if you have never considered rescuing a pet, it might be eye opening to hear that about 920,000 innocent animals were euthanized in shelters in 2020 because they were not adopted in time to be saved. 

#2

This Little Guy Was Left Alone In The Rain

This Little Guy Was Left Alone In The Rain

He almost died from pneumonia and severe eye infections made him blind. One year later, this handsome boy lightens my life. His name is Stevie Wonder

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To get more information on why it's important to rescue and adopt cats rather than buy them from breeders, we reached out to Heather Svoboda Miller at the Cat Adoption Team. She told Bored Panda, "When you adopt a cat from a shelter or rescue, you actually help two cats—the kitty you are adding to your home, and the one who will get to come into the shelter now that there's an open space," Heather explained.

"No matter how comfortable and loving a shelter and its staff and volunteers are, the shelter and the strangers there are stressful for even the most confident cat. After all, there's just no substitute for a loving home with a dedicated family of one's own. When you adopt, you give a cat the chance to feel their best again!"

#4

You Can Clearly See The Change In Her Eyes

You Can Clearly See The Change In Her Eyes

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#5

My Dumpster Duo… Someone Else’s Trash Is Definitely My Treasure!!

My Dumpster Duo… Someone Else’s Trash Is Definitely My Treasure!!

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#6

Who Knew The Goofy The Little Stray We Found Would Turn Into A Stunning Supermodel Cat?!

Who Knew The Goofy The Little Stray We Found Would Turn Into A Stunning Supermodel Cat?!

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DDmaybeandor
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The lip problem is called eosinophilic granuloma complex. I followed the link to find out because my Mom used to have a cat with the same issue.

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We also asked Heather what kind of transformations she has seen in cats that have been adopted into loving homes. "Recently, a cat named White Lightening Jr. was adopted from Cat Adoption Team after more than 100 days in our care. When he first arrived, it was clear that shelter life was overwhelming him. He would hiss, growl, swat, and lunge at our staff and volunteers," she explained. "With help from our behavior team, we soon learned that treats and playtime helped White Lightening Jr. feel more relaxed and happy. Even though our team put in a lot of time and effort to make him comfortable, he still didn't like to be touched and wouldn't solicit petting or sit in laps."

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"Well, all that changed once he was adopted! His adopter shares that White Lightening Jr. absolutely blossomed once home. He runs up to her purring and excited to see her. He also snuggles in her laps, never swats or hisses, and seems thoroughly joyful now that he's home! His is just one story. It's heartwarming to see how a cat who is shy, fearful, or just not very social in a shelter will transform into the snuggliest puddle of love once they get comfy and confident with their new people."

#8

The Power Of Rescue! I Rescue Animals. This Is Pearl The Day I Got Her, And Her Today In Her Forever Home!

 The Power Of Rescue! I Rescue Animals. This Is Pearl The Day I Got Her, And Her Today In Her Forever Home!

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Loolie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omg! Poor Pearl! I'm so glad she's a new shot at life and a forever home!

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#9

During Christmas, My Husband And I Pulled This Girl Out Of A Random Persons Car In A Parking Lot

During Christmas, My Husband And I Pulled This Girl Out Of A Random Persons Car In A Parking Lot

I walked by, immediately heard her crying, and rushed to help. It took hours to get her out. Her name is Peanut Butter

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Lastly, we asked Heather if there are any misconceptions about adopting animals that she would like to dispel. "People sometimes have the impression that animals in a shelter are 'damaged goods' who've been abused or were given up because they had behavior problems," she said. "That couldn't be further from the truth! Most animals in a shelter are lovable, well-behaved, friendly, and from homes where they were cared for and loved in the past. Of course, it's important to give a newly adopted pet time to unwind and settle in when they make a big transition from the shelter to a home. But once they can relax, they often surprise us by becoming even more fun and affectionate than we could have imagined. It's definitely worth looking past a scruffy coat or unwelcome behavior to be rewarded with a beatiful, funny, sweet, and loving pet. And even if they never become a lap cat or don't grow to love time at the dog park, you'll likely grow to love them and their quirks all the more!"

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If you're interested in adopting a cat of your own or just want more information about the process, you can check out the Cat Adoption Team's website right here.

#11

[2 Weeks Later] Guess Who Just Got Her All Clear From The Vet!

[2 Weeks Later] Guess Who Just Got Her All Clear From The Vet!

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#12

My Abby The Day The Animal Shelter Called Me And Now 6 Years Later

My Abby The Day The Animal Shelter Called Me And Now 6 Years Later

 She was found clinging to the side of an oil container, and they were planning on her not leaving the shelter bc of the oil. I rushed to rescue her and scoop her up

Hoperosaliex Report

We also reached out to Ruth Allen, Director of Admissions and Matchmaking at the ASPCA Adoption Center, to hear from another expert why adopting is so important. "When adopting from a shelter, you often have the advantage of learning valuable information about the cat’s background, including any important medical or behavioral needs," Ruth explained. "If you are thinking about bringing a new kitten into your life, please consider adopting from a local shelter or rescue or learn how to identify a responsible breeder to ensure you are not supporting the cruel breeding industry. Responsible breeders reject the practices of commercial breeders, brokers, pet stores, auctions and others who profit from cruelty and instead plan breeding carefully, place animals thoughtfully, and take a lifetime of responsibility for the animals they have bred. In addition to saving and protecting lives, adoption also frees up shelter resources to help another animal in need."

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#13

Newest Addition To Our Little Fur Family... My Beautiful Cross Eyed Girl Asira

Newest Addition To Our Little Fur Family... My Beautiful Cross Eyed Girl Asira

She gets around just fine but she doesn't see so well, but that's ok we all have our flaws and she will be plenty loved here

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Mozzarella
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It is taking me a lot of willpower not to boop her nose through the screen.

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#14

Answered A Message On Nextdoor About A Cat Abandoned In A House Alone For A Year

Answered A Message On Nextdoor About A Cat Abandoned In A House Alone For A Year

Her owner fell and went into care and the house went up for sale. A caretaker left dry food out once in a while. First pic is from the real estate agent of the house. Second pic is her home with us. She’s about 15.

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#15

This Senior Declawed Girl Was Living In A Hotel Storm Drain Starving

This Senior Declawed Girl Was Living In A Hotel Storm Drain Starving

 As soon as I got the call, I rushed there. She had to be sedated and shaved, as seen in the before photo due to matting. She was so thin. The rest are in her forever home 1.5 years later!

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We also asked Ruth what kind of transformations she has seen in cats that have been adopted into loving homes. "Approximately 3.2 million cats enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Adoption places shelter animals in safe and loving homes and provides people with comfort and companionship," she told Bored Panda. "The time that an animal spends with a shelter or rescue organization is a brief moment compared to their time in a safe, comfortable home, and many shelters offer ongoing support to help adopters as questions come up along the way. Many animals at shelters, especially older ones, have already lived in homes and have experience being pets, so are ready to transition into their new home. To help your new cat feel at home, purchase pet supplies in advance and set them up prior to the pet's arrival. For cats, this includes a cat-safe collar, litter and litterbox, bed, food, scratcher, toys, and bowls."

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#16

Still Best Friends, 8 Months After Adoption

Still Best Friends, 8 Months After Adoption

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Mozzarella
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Guys… does anyone have a backup heart for me? I need another one after my first one melted when I saw this 🥰

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#17

From Stray To Foster Fail... Wednesday Is Looking Much Better Since Her Intake Photo

From Stray To Foster Fail... Wednesday Is Looking Much Better Since Her Intake Photo

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#18

When We Found Mocha At The Shelter, She Flopped Over In My Arms And Stayed Like That The Whole Time

When We Found Mocha At The Shelter, She Flopped Over In My Arms And Stayed Like That The Whole Time

6 Weeks Home Now, And She's Right There Waiting To Cuddle Every Time I Sit Down

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Katy McMouse
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cozy, safe kitties will get you every time. I'm turning into a puddle over here.

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We also asked Ruth if there are any misconceptions about adoption that she wanted to dispel. "The ASPCA encourages the public to keep an open mind when adopting, as you may go home with a pet you hadn’t previously considered," she said. "To learn more about cats available for adoption at your local shelter, visit ASPCA.org/Adopt. Your personality and lifestyle, along with the amount of time spent at home, should be explored to determine what pet is right for your household. Ask questions and lean on the staff at the shelter for guidance—they're the experts at making matches and can typically provide information to help you decide whether or not the animal is a good fit for your lifestyle."

#19

Before & After Adoption; Our Lovely Princess, Kimchi

Before & After Adoption; Our Lovely Princess, Kimchi

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#20

I Fostered A Lot Of Stray Babies In Need This Past Year. This Special Girl Is One Of The Last Ones The Fate Has Met Me With

I Fostered A Lot Of Stray Babies In Need This Past Year. This Special Girl Is One Of The Last Ones The Fate Has Met Me With

 I decided to keep her and end 2021 on a positive note.. So, meet Misty - my new family member 

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#21

Burrito Will Live? He's Turning 4 Next Month!!

Burrito Will Live? He's Turning 4 Next Month!!

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Ruth gave some more tips for helping animal shelters if you're interested but just don't know where to start. "Every community has different needs, so getting in contact with your local shelter is the best way to find out what kind of support they need most," Ruth says. "If you’re not ready to adopt, you can still support your local shelter by fostering, volunteering, or donating. Both adoption and fostering puts shelter animals in safe and loving homes, helps shelters conserve their space and resources, and provides people with comfort and companionship. Fostering is unique in that it helps shelter animals acclimate to an eventual life in a home."

#22

Realised The Only Photos Of Our Ezio On Here Are From When He Was Still Really Poorly

Realised The Only Photos Of Our Ezio On Here Are From When He Was Still Really Poorly

He came to us with cat flu, ringworm, an undiagnosed cleft palate and was so underweight the vet was more concerned about that than the flu.

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DDmaybeandor
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He is BEAUTIFUL! Truly one of the most gorgeous cats I’ve seen. I love his coloring.

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#23

Before And After Adoption… He Was Found In A Trash Can In A Plastic Bag 4 Years Ago

Before And After Adoption… He Was Found In A Trash Can In A Plastic Bag 4 Years Ago

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Katie Lutesinger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's a special place in Hell for people who do that to small defenseless animals. If you don't want a pet you give it to the shelter or find a new owner yourself! Argh.

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#24

Here’s Jack! He Was Found In The Streets Weighing Only 6 Ounces With Infections In Both Eyes. Now He’s A Healthy Boy At Almost 4.5 Lbs And One Eye Short!

Here’s Jack! He Was Found In The Streets Weighing Only 6 Ounces With Infections In Both Eyes. Now He’s A Healthy Boy At Almost 4.5 Lbs And One Eye Short!

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"Feline breeding season, or kitten season, is when shelters nationwide are overwhelmed with vulnerable and newborn cats during the warmer months—with shelters and rescues in some regions experiencing a steady stream of kitten intake year-round," Ruth explained. "Vulnerable kittens under eight weeks old often require round-the-clock attention and bottle-feeding from foster caregivers as they mature. During this time, the public can visit ASPCA.org/Foster to learn more about fostering kittens."

If you'd like to find even more information on the ASPCA or how to get started helping out, be sure to visit their website right here.

#25

My Friend Found A Sickly Kitten While Delivering Packages. Here's A Pic Of His First Day At The Vet vs. His Recheck Appointment

My Friend Found A Sickly Kitten While Delivering Packages. Here's A Pic Of His First Day At The Vet vs. His Recheck Appointment

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#26

I Found That Abandoned Litter Of 8 Kittens In July Last Year (2020). This Is Them Now!

I Found That Abandoned Litter Of 8 Kittens In July Last Year (2020). This Is Them Now!

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Just a ray of f'ing sunshine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Am I the only one who looked for each grown kitty in the picture of all them together? ------> Spoiler Alert: You are able to see each of the kitties in the top picture! ❤️

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CatGirl
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And they all grew up beautifully after... Because some people ARE good

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glowworm2
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love how each kitty is clearly distinguishable in the before and after photos. Lovely kitties!

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Cheryl Carter
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I count only 7 older kitties. Shouldn't there be 8 as the top says? I am hoping that there was a typo and not that a kitten didn't make it.

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Teresa Spanics
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

AWW 😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

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Stephanie Did It
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Gilligan, the Skipper too, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the Professor and Mary Ann, here and making us smile!

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Ramona Elkins
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful family! Thanks for saving these adorable cats!!

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Bud Jennings
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WOW!! So Awesome of you!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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#27

Found Crying Inside The Car’s Engine. Took An Hour To Extract Her Out. She Is Now Called Nori

Found Crying Inside The Car’s Engine. Took An Hour To Extract Her Out. She Is Now Called Nori

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We hope you are enjoying all of these adorably heartwarming photos of cats who now get to live out their days in wonderful, loving homes. Be sure to upvote the pics you find most adorable, and let us know in the comments if your fur babies were adopted from rescues as well. Remember to "adopt don't shop" the next time you are looking to expand your family, and if you want to find even more of these wholesome photo transformations, check out this Bored Panda piece next.

#28

Found This Little Guy In The Streets A Year And A Half Ago. Now He’s Looking Dapper Af

Found This Little Guy In The Streets A Year And A Half Ago. Now He’s Looking Dapper Af

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#29

First Pic Is The Day We Rescued Her From A Dumpster! 2nd Is A Month Later Enjoying Her New Life

First Pic Is The Day We Rescued Her From A Dumpster! 2nd Is A Month Later Enjoying Her New Life

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Vinita Talaulikar
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thoroughly changed for better. Looked anxious earlier now all relaxed. 😘

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#30

Chira. Rescued Off Street In Miami By Our Rescue

Chira. Rescued Off Street In Miami By Our Rescue

Treating Vet Fell In Love And Adopted. Turns Out It’s Cancer But She Will Get Best Care And Tons Of Love

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#31

One Of My Foster Cats After A Month Of Care

One Of My Foster Cats After A Month Of Care

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#32

My Disabled Boy Was Abandoned At A Shelter. Now His Biggest Problem Is Deciding Whether He’ll Sleep On My Face Or My Feet

My Disabled Boy Was Abandoned At A Shelter. Now His Biggest Problem Is Deciding Whether He’ll Sleep On My Face Or My Feet

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#33

Her Stray Mother Dropped Korra Off On Our Porch To Save Her Life - From Crusty Baby To Pretty Tortie!

Her Stray Mother Dropped Korra Off On Our Porch To Save Her Life - From Crusty Baby To Pretty Tortie!

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#34

It's Been 4 Years Since I Found My Little Scrapyard Kitten, He Just Keeps Getting Weirder

It's Been 4 Years Since I Found My Little Scrapyard Kitten, He Just Keeps Getting Weirder

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#35

At The Shelter/After

At The Shelter/After

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DDmaybeandor
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First pic makes me want to cry. To feel the way that baby must have been feeling. So frightened! I’m so happy you two found each other.

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#36

5 Weeks And Struggling To 5 Months And Thriving

5 Weeks And Struggling To 5 Months And Thriving

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#37

Bean, A Few Months vs. 7 Years!

Bean, A Few Months vs. 7 Years!

Found Her In My Backyard When She Was A Baby. First Photo Was Of Her First Bath. She Has Matured Into Such A Confident Cat!

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#38

The Latest Rescue: Pookie The Bear, A 5 Weeks Old Kitten I Decided To Keep

The Latest Rescue: Pookie The Bear, A 5 Weeks Old Kitten I Decided To Keep

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Loki’s Lil Butter Knife
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my goodness, that poor baby. Thank you for saving her. You have a forever loving companion.

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#39

The Day I Found Him Dirty And Starving In A Seasonal Corn Maze vs. Living The Good Life 2 Years Later!

The Day I Found Him Dirty And Starving In A Seasonal Corn Maze vs. Living The Good Life 2 Years Later!

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#40

This Is Pomelo

This Is Pomelo

This is Pomelo. He was abandoned 3.5 months ago during rainy season dirty and stained in his own urine, massive ear infection, malnurished and had chronic diarrhoea. Think we fixed him all up alright!

raavenash Report

#41

Hubert Had Ringworm, A Respiratory Infection, Fleas, And An Infection. Now, She Just Has An Attitude

Hubert Had Ringworm, A Respiratory Infection, Fleas, And An Infection. Now, She Just Has An Attitude

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#42

Disney Before And After Adoption

Disney Before And After Adoption

She Passed Away This January After Almost 4 Years Together. Today Would Have Been Her 13th Birthday. I Feel So Blessed To Have Been Able To Have This Time With Her.

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KitKat
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

“This is the miracle I've been dreaming of.” Disney is forever in your heart. 💖

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#43

Chandler’s Before And After, Found Outside Alone In The Cold. Now A Healthy And Loved Handsome Boy

Chandler’s Before And After, Found Outside Alone In The Cold. Now A Healthy And Loved Handsome Boy

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#44

Locke's Before And After! He Was At A Kill Shelter Down In Georgia After Living His Whole Life A Stray

Locke's Before And After! He Was At A Kill Shelter Down In Georgia After Living His Whole Life A Stray

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#46

Robster Lobster As We Found Him And After A Month With A Foster!

Robster Lobster As We Found Him And After A Month With A Foster!

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#47

My Adopted Boy, Trouble, Was A Bit Large When We Got Him, He's Finally At A Healthy Weight!

My Adopted Boy, Trouble, Was A Bit Large When We Got Him, He's Finally At A Healthy Weight!

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#48

I Wish I Had Better Before Photos! 1 Month Difference

I Wish I Had Better Before Photos! 1 Month Difference

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M K Shaw
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your photos are fine! Obviously, kitty is very loved and living the best life now!

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#50

Finally Got To Bring This Little One Home Today. Meet Miss Clementine

Finally Got To Bring This Little One Home Today. Meet Miss Clementine

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Note: this post originally had 116 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.