Elderly rescue cat Mildred looks completely different after losing her matted fur coat

Cat carers at our Downham Market Adoption Centre were shocked to find a gorgeous mature moggy hiding beneath a mess of scruffy fur rescued from the streets of Norfolk.

Mature moggy Mildred after her shave

The cat, who they have named Mildred, was severely dehydrated and emaciated when she arrived at the centre, and a thorough vet examination estimated her to be 20 years old.

She was found wandering in the busy Barroway Drove area of Downham Market by a member of the public who took pity on the sad looking cat and carried her to the Cats Protection centre.

The huge pile of matted fur that was removed from Mildred

Cat Care Assistant Leah Snowden said: “Mildred was in an awful state when she arrived. Her fur was so mucky that we didn’t realise just how thin she was. When we shaved the worst of the matted fur, it was shocking to see this little bag on bones. If she hadn’t been rescued, it is quite likely that she wouldn’t have survived the cold weather.”

Sadly, a quick scan of Mildred did not reveal a microchip and, despite local appeals, it has not been possible to trace any owner.

Intensive treatment has helped her to gain weight and her general condition has improved. Old age does present some aches and pains from arthritis, but Mildred readily takes daily medication with her dinner.

Lovely Mildred ready for her forever home

Once she had been nursed back to health, it didn't take this elderly cat long to find a loving home in which to live her autumn years.

Mature moggies like Mildred have so much love to give and ask for little in return. This golden girl will be content to spend her days looking out of a window before snuggling up on a sofa in the evening.

Leah said: “Mildred has the most loving eyes that seem to reflect a heart of gold. Every time she looks at you, it’s clear she just wants some warmth and love in her final years. She deserves that, bless her.”

To find a new feline friend looking for a new home in your area, visit www.cats.org.uk/adopt-a-cat