Some cats carry scars you can see—and some you can’t. For Joey, a rescue cat from Houston, Texas, it’s both. After enduring severe abuse and multiple traumatic injuries, Joey was left disabled. But thanks to one compassionate adopter, his story has turned from heartbreak to hope.
A Cat No One Else Stopped For
When Hannah Powell, 29, visited the Houston Humane Society in 2023, she was still grieving the loss of her childhood cat. She expected to meet many animals before making a decision—but the moment she saw Joey, she knew.
Joey sat alone, with no visitors at his kennel. His sign explained that he was a survivor of cruelty, having endured 10 separate trauma events—including skull fractures, a ruptured eardrum, dehydration, brain injury, and even a time when euthanasia was recommended.
“I was immediately tearing up,” Powell shared. “There was no hesitation. He was the one.”
Living With Disabilities—but Full of Life
Despite his injuries, Joey hasn’t lost his spark. He lives with mild cognitive dysfunction and a front limb disability that makes him bow-legged and wobbly. His jumps are often clumsy, and he sometimes wipes out completely. He also experiences occasional seizures in his sleep.
But Joey refuses to slow down. “I wasn’t expecting him to be so energetic,” Powell joked. “He climbs, jumps, and runs like nothing happened. I just make sure to give him soft landings.”
Within days of arriving at Powell’s home, Joey lit up. “I cried because it felt like he knew he was finally safe,” she said.
A Growing Feline Family
Joey isn’t just surviving—he’s thriving with his new siblings. Powell soon adopted Mama, another rescue cat, and later foster-failed Salem. To her surprise, Joey became the most nurturing big brother.
“He carries Salem around in his mouth like a mama cat would,” Powell said with a laugh. “They cuddle constantly. I just make sure to give Joey solo playtime so he doesn’t get overwhelmed.”
Spreading Awareness Through TikTok
Powell shared Joey’s journey on TikTok (@hann_roxy), where his resilience has touched thousands. The video has over 92,600 views and 22,700 likes, with more than 1,500 comments praising both Joey and his adopter.
- “Joey now knows nothing but love. A thousand forehead kisses for you both.”
- “The summary of his trauma is heartbreaking. Thank you for taking him home.”
- “Thank you for letting him feel loved.”
Powell hopes Joey’s story inspires others to adopt pets who might otherwise be overlooked. “Houston has a horrible stray crisis,” she said. “I want to show how rewarding it is to give a chance to the cats who aren’t like the others.”
Takeaway for Cat Parents
Joey’s story is a reminder that rescue animals with disabilities or difficult pasts deserve love too. With patience, care, and compassion, they often give back more affection than you could ever expect.
FAQ
Q: Can cats with disabilities live full, happy lives?
Yes. With the right care, disabled cats adapt well. They may be wobbly, need softer landings, or require medication, but they can live rich, joyful lives.
Q: Why should I consider adopting a special-needs cat?
Special-needs cats are often overlooked, yet they can be some of the most affectionate companions. Adopting them provides both love and a second chance at life.
Q: How do I help a rescue cat settle into a new home?
Start with a safe, small space (like a bathroom) before gradually introducing them to the rest of the home. Patience, routine, and gentle affection help build trust.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to lifo@snugglesouls.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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