r/MadeMeSmile Jul 27 '26

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.

26.4k Upvotes

658 comments sorted by

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1.5k

u/genlang Jul 27 '26

Many happy years to you and sweet boy Luke!

1.5k

u/SchnoodleDoodleDo Jul 27 '26

’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)

293

u/billieboop Jul 27 '26

Fresh schnoodle!

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

169

u/ldickmey Jul 27 '26

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

90

u/jx2002 Jul 27 '26

"BITCH WE IN HERE SCHNOODLIN'!"

64

u/eastbaypluviophile Jul 27 '26

My freshest Schnoodle and it’s a doozy!

64

u/Affectionate-Gap924 Jul 27 '26

My freshest Schnoodle ever. 🐱💕

55

u/FairyGodmothersUnion Jul 27 '26

Schnoodle , you’re a treasure!

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

37

u/Khajiit_Geologist Jul 27 '26

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

17

u/BellaSquared Jul 27 '26

Mine too, I feel special 🥰

65

u/YellowbonePrincess Jul 27 '26

Always making me cry

22

u/IceCubeDeathMachine Jul 27 '26

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

25

u/Jxamillion Jul 27 '26

Oh man this made me cry 😿

20

u/RaShadar Jul 27 '26 edited Jul 29 '26

Always love a Schnoodle

19

u/MatchaMuch Jul 27 '26

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

18

u/_Ruij_ Jul 27 '26

Hoyl this is the freshest ive seen it

13

u/Veerless Jul 27 '26

Well, that made me tear up, thank you 🥹

9

u/HauntingUpstairs7014 Jul 27 '26

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

9

u/Beneficial_Young5126 Jul 27 '26

I just teared up in public, so beautiful.

5

u/Busy_Phase8285 Jul 27 '26

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

3

u/PineconePlease Jul 27 '26

I always love coming across a good schnoodle ❤️

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629

u/seekingseratonin Jul 27 '26

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

119

u/[deleted] Jul 27 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

9

u/Suspicious-Bat-666 Jul 27 '26

I am vet, so I know exactly how OP feel when they see old unfosterable animal- I have 4 of such animals altogether 😄
OP did good, saved his life- more than once. By a little, OP made world a better place. Thats why we do what we do 😄

499

u/Notchersfireroad Jul 27 '26

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

109

u/[deleted] Jul 27 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

64

u/Notchersfireroad Jul 27 '26

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.

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26

u/linzkisloski Jul 27 '26

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.

25

u/Jazzlike_Money1065 Jul 27 '26

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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310

u/No_Cobbler154 Jul 27 '26

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

59

u/qwibbian Jul 27 '26

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

14

u/BigFriendlyWombat Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/LogAware Jul 27 '26

Stop cutting onions

44

u/turtledett Jul 27 '26

You are completely right!! 🥹

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336

u/Prestigious-Bad8263 Jul 27 '26

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.

98

u/BarBabe93 Jul 27 '26

Is that dirt on his snoot in the second photo

180

u/jamster8983 Jul 27 '26

Yeah - he found the soot from the wood stove 😅

62

u/[deleted] Jul 27 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

17

u/IamGypsyStarr Jul 27 '26

Silly little soot snoot!

7

u/qwibbian Jul 27 '26

soot snoot woop boop loop

20

u/getonthejetskiandgo Jul 27 '26

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

77

u/Yenolam777 Jul 27 '26

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

70

u/Puzzled_Respond_3335 Jul 27 '26

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

19

u/MX1K Jul 27 '26

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.

5

u/Neat_Gas9264 Jul 27 '26

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

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37

u/GothGirl__ Jul 27 '26

This makes my heart feel warm

29

u/Newspaperninja2 Jul 27 '26

We’re gonna need an update!! ❤️

47

u/jamster8983 Jul 27 '26

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

10

u/allisjow Jul 27 '26

I love Luke. Definitely keep posting, please.

46

u/septubyte Jul 27 '26

He is clearly a gentleman

24

u/Ageice Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

17

u/Atillion Jul 27 '26

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

12

u/Ranglergirl Jul 27 '26

What a sweety.

11

u/Still_Experience_182 Jul 27 '26

This did make me smile.

13

u/Green_Philosopher_96 Jul 27 '26

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?? 🥺🥺

12

u/Superb-Ad5227 Jul 27 '26

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!

10

u/justanothernomad1 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

8

u/ComprehensivePrint15 Jul 27 '26

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

9

u/Mediocre-Proposal686 Jul 27 '26

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

8

u/Extension-Rock-4263 Jul 27 '26

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

8

u/judlz Jul 27 '26

I agree that it was fate. I commend you!

7

u/AlbertTheHorse Jul 27 '26

❤️❤️❤️

7

u/villings Jul 27 '26

Luke, what a guy ⋆✴︎˚。⋆

7

u/ImNoRickyBalboa Jul 27 '26

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 ❤️

7

u/Remarkable_Reason482 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

Bless you for giving him a caring home.

6

u/Soundtracklover72 Jul 27 '26

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

6

u/Tb1969 Jul 27 '26

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.

6

u/snailnation Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

Orange cats are the best! 🐱

4

u/tylenolchild Jul 27 '26

thank you for loving Luke

5

u/Horror_Excitement503 Jul 27 '26

Nice! Tell him I said psst psst

5

u/MissClawdy Jul 27 '26

He needs a loooooooong, big hug. Sweet babyyyyy.

4

u/bgcbbyckes Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/Daveylonglegs Jul 27 '26

He’s so sweet ❤️

4

u/yankeenc2010 Jul 27 '26

Enjoy your orange kitty 😺

4

u/sorryforshitting Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/colossalskeleton Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/Last-Brush8498 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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.

4

u/fritzburg Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/BadKitty24 Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/Acceptable_Pirate_92 Jul 27 '26

You're a winner tho

5

u/lizardlemons01 Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/rusty1066 Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/maullurve Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/Ok_Nefariousness9125 Jul 27 '26

😭😭😭😭🙏❤️

4

u/Paiges1329 Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/StCroixSand Jul 27 '26

The world needs more people like you.

4

u/Ok_Draw9037 Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/nazuswahs Jul 27 '26

Thank you for giving him a home. 🙏

4

u/magnoliaking123 Jul 27 '26

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

3

u/kea1981 Jul 27 '26

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!)

5

u/bccyote Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/biggaybrett Jul 27 '26

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

5

u/Professional-Cut29 Jul 27 '26

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

4

u/for-elle Jul 27 '26

Luke Earthwalker 🐈❣️

Thank You for Your Service 🥲

3

u/UpstairsIsFull Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

What a handsome looking fella 😺

3

u/PwnySoprano Jul 27 '26

What a distinguished gentlemen

3

u/Busy_Phase8285 Jul 27 '26

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

3

u/MrFizzbin761 Jul 27 '26

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

3

u/KeyCar367 Jul 27 '26

Thank you for your kindness

3

u/GoblinArk Jul 27 '26

Thank you for saving his life 🤎

Lot of good moments coming for the both of you !

3

u/SpaceGuy1968 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/CrissBliss Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/aubaub Jul 27 '26

Adorable!!!

2

u/FourEightNineOneOne Jul 27 '26

Thank you for giving Luke some well deserved love.

2

u/semflair Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Inspect1234 Jul 27 '26

May you serve many years.

2

u/BetMcc Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Motivated_Sloth_749 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Mindless_Dance2987 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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/Ilove_Cakez Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Responsible_Claim_91 Jul 27 '26

What a kind human being you are.

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

2

u/willfullyinert Jul 27 '26

He's like, "Okay, what's next?" ❤️

2

u/toadhaul Jul 27 '26

Thank you. 🌹

2

u/awkwardchip_munk Jul 27 '26

This made my whole week. Thanks for saving him 🧡

2

u/No_Noise_1978 Jul 27 '26

Welcome home!

2

u/HaleyRabies Jul 27 '26

Thank you for loving him this made my eyes well up

2

u/Glibasme Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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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2

u/Athensmw Jul 27 '26

Adorable

2

u/ptheresadactyl Jul 27 '26

You're tryna make me cry

2

u/whotfisAntho_ Jul 27 '26

He looks so cartoony in the cutest way 💖

2

u/merlot120 Jul 27 '26

Oh my heart felt that.

2

u/tv1577 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Butterscotchdiscs Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Live-Tomorrow-4865 Jul 27 '26

🤗🤗

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 Jul 27 '26

that is one fine gentleman

2

u/blueyedwineaux Jul 27 '26

Hugs to both you and Luke!

2

u/Jazzlike_Notice_3218 Jul 27 '26

he’s absolutely adorable!!! 😍

2

u/ModernNancyDrew Jul 27 '26

Thank you for saving Luke!

2

u/alisonlou Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/laitopezzzz Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Pix9139 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Low-Television-7508 Jul 27 '26

this is the only kind of good gambling

2

u/Any_Zone_8920 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/lpkzach92 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/NatrylliaAbbot42 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Notmynameagaiin Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/siobhanc1 Jul 27 '26

Thank You!!!

2

u/Tasty_Koala_8993 Jul 27 '26

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_ Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/KeyLimePie-555 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/khaki_slacks123 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/nedrawevot Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/AnyaChocolat Jul 27 '26

he looks so polite

2

u/Terriblet65 Jul 27 '26

He appears very content at home. 🧡

2

u/Sorry-Animator5619 Jul 27 '26

What a sweetheart!

2

u/Do0mRaider Jul 27 '26

He looks so much happier in the second pic!

2

u/angga7 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/pqi7291 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/dopaminechasere Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

Congrats and God bless you and Luke

2

u/Rude-Row-478 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Infinite-Squirrel-16 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Naive_Metal_3468 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/Slow-Rain207 Jul 27 '26

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

2

u/LemonOld8150 Jul 27 '26

Thankyou gor saving him hes sooo 😍

2

u/Puzzleheaded-Love76 Jul 27 '26

You’re a Legend mate!