One fateful day, a large male cat wandered into a household in search of a meal, setting off a series of events that would drastically alter his future.
During feeding time, Helen Popham, a caregiver for neighborhood cats, emerged with meals for a group of stray cats that had made her yard their home, including a new arrival named Ricky. This tabby cat had a striking appearance, looking like a mix between a raccoon and a bobcat, with his large cheeks standing out. Helen was surprised to see him show up on her security camera footage, and upon closer inspection, she noticed he was skittish around humans and covered in scars from past battles. After reaching out to her local Cats Protection organization, Helen discovered that Ricky had been wandering the area for a couple of years, relying on scraps of food and whatever shelter he could find.
“When we realized he was a stray and kept getting hurt, we decided to make it our goal to tame him,” Helen shared with Love Meow. Ricky, with his seemingly bottomless stomach, gradually started to visit more often and became friendlier around Helen, especially during meal times. He would eagerly snatch food from her hand with such gusto, as if he was in a competition. Ricky would finish all his food and then lick his bowl spotless.”
He initially displayed a lot of nervousness and hissing when Helen first tried to approach him gently for a stroke. Despite her gentle intentions, the big man vehemently denied her advances with a warning hiss.
Eventually, one day he approached them with a noticeable abscess from being bitten, prompting the realization that he required immediate veterinary care. With his weakened state, they were finally able to capture him for treatment.
With numerous scars from battles, Ricky found solace in the cozy corner of the garage that his owners, Helen Popham and her family, had set up for him to recover. Initially unsure of how he would react, they were pleasantly surprised by Ricky’s quick adjustment and daily progress. This newfound comfort and stability slowly helped break down the tough exterior he presented, revealing the soft-hearted soul hidden within.
Ricky’s condition started to improve as he became more comfortable with Helen. Thanks to the right care, his wounds healed, his energy levels rose, and he developed a healthy appetite. He even allowed Helen to give him head scratches, despite still having moments of hissing. Ricky soon figured out that the kitchen was where his food was kept, so he bravely ventured inside the house.
He began to venture around the house with Helen Popham. After each adventure, he returned to the garage and settled down on his cozy hay bale bed, preparing himself for more indoor explorations the next day. With each passing day, he became more self-assured, even enjoying head scratches and grooming sessions. As he spent more time inside, he became reluctant to leave, feeling right at home in his new indoor surroundings.
Helen Popham shared how Ricky went from being a stray cat they cared for outside to a beloved member of the family. After four months of looking after him outdoors, bringing him inside only made him more trusting. In just a few weeks, he went from seeking pats to becoming increasingly affectionate. Ricky found his forever home with Helen and her family.
Helen Popham shared that after having Ricky neutered and microchipped, everything went smoothly. The vet was pleasantly surprised by how content Ricky was to remain indoors with them, especially considering his previously wild nature. Ricky’s enthusiasm for catnip toys was evident when he eagerly grabbed one, rubbed it on his face, and ended up blissfully passed out.
Ricky experienced his inaugural Christmas celebration with his loved ones, all dressed up and ready to make a statement. Curiosity led him to Helen’s room where he stumbled upon the bed, instantly declaring it as his top spot for relaxation and a quick nap.
His latest spot for a snooze is on his mother’s bed – it’s become his go-to napping place. He adores following his family members around the house, keeping a close eye on them while also catching some Z’s by their side. Belly rubs are his favorite and he loves making those adorable biscuits, all while basking in the knowledge that he is truly cherished.
One day, Big Tom Cat visited a house to grab a bite to eat, and that simple act changed his life completely.