ZUZU
Stories of Hope
Zuzu’s story is one of courage, compassion, and a commitment to saving lives.
Zuzu’s mom had trusted another boarding facility she found online, but when her messages went unanswered for over a week, she feared something was wrong. Through tears, she called Cats in the City Rescue, desperate for help. She asked if we could step in, retrieve Zuzu, and care for him until her return in a month. We couldn’t promise success, but we assured her we’d do everything possible to bring Zuzu to safety.
What followed was a whirlwind of urgency and action. Upon arriving at the boarding house, we found it in a remote area, with windows sealed by duct-taped cardboard. The home’s occupant appeared disheveled and unwell, but after a tense exchange, Zuzu was handed over in a carrier. The relief of having him back quickly turned to concern—Zuzu smelled terribly, and his sad, motionless demeanor hinted at something far worse.
A closer look revealed the truth: Zuzu’s left hind leg dangled unnaturally. We rushed him to DoveLewis Emergency Veterinary Hospital, where X-rays confirmed a severe, untreated break that left no option but amputation.
Zuzu’s mom, unable to afford the surgery, relinquished custody to Cats in the City Rescue, trusting us to provide the care he needed. Zuzu had surgery that same day and adjusted remarkably well to life as a tripod. Within days, he was hopping around, learning how to navigate his new world with inspiring resilience.
Soon after, we handpicked a loving family we knew would treasure Zuzu. After a trial stay, Zuzu found his forever home—a place where he’s cherished every day. Nearly 18 months later, Zuzu remains happy and thriving, and he recently visited us for a spa day, sporting his refreshed coat and an unmistakable glow of joy.
Helping cats like Zuzu is why Cats in the City Rescue exists. With your support, we can ensure more cats like Zuzu find safety, care, and the love they deserve.
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LAVAMAN
A CITC Love Story
We first met Lavaman in 2017 when he started vacationing with us while his human traveled for work. Each visit deepened our bond as Lavaman treated us to his signature purrs, lap time, and adorable habit of sprawling out belly-up, taking up as much floor space as possible.
In 2020, like so many, Lavaman’s life was turned upside down by the pandemic. His human relocated to Idaho, but due to severe family allergies, Lavaman had to return to CITC—this time as his primary home. We ensured his days were filled with joy, companionship, and even the company of kittens, who Lavaman adored. He’d light up and patiently wait for them to approach, always careful not to scare them.
After 16 months, it became clear Lavaman needed a new forever home. We promised to find him a family where love overflowed, and we knew just the place. Our dear friends Kateri and her son Davis, who had recently lost their beloved cat Kona, decided to open their hearts to Lavaman. The match was perfect. Now 10 years old, Lavaman has become an Adventure Cat, walking on a leash, hiking in the woods, and charming the neighbors. He’s living his best life, filled with love and new experiences.
Lavaman’s story reminds us that while life can be unpredictable, we can help ensure it’s filled with love and brightness. We are grateful to Kateri and Davis for giving Lavaman a beautiful new chapter and proud to still be part of his journey.
From all of us at CITC: Here’s to Lavaman and his unforgettable story!