We often think that cats can take care of themselves, but some cats need regular grooming to prevent their fur from getting out of control. Unfortunately, not all owners are able to provide this care, as was the case with Hidey, a cat whose owner was unable to properly look after her due to their Alzheimer’s condition. As a result, Hidey went without proper grooming for years, leading to extreme matting that made her resemble an octopus.

When animal rescuers finally found Hidey, they immediately called the Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center in Pittsburgh. The experts at the shelter estimated that Hidey had been neglected for up to two years, with some of her “dreadlocks” reaching 6 to 8 inches in length.

Jenn Levitzki, a veterinarian who assisted in freeing Hidey from her matted fur, recorded the procedure in a video that she shared on Facebook. Levitzki described Hidey’s fur as “the worst matting I have ever seen,” emphasizing the need to address this issue promptly. Hidey was sedated to make her more comfortable during the process.

The shelter’s Facebook page mentioned that Hidey suffered from severe matting that had been neglected for years. The medical team at the shelter worked to carefully shave off the pounds of intertwined fur, resulting in a much happier and healthier cat. Hidey was later re-homed with a distant relative of her former owner.

This heart-wrenching story highlights the importance of looking out for our elderly neighbors and their pets. Checking in on them not only ensures their well-being but also allows us to address any issues their pets may be facing. Let’s remember to always lend a helping hand to our elderly neighbors and show them that we care. After all, we never know what struggles they may be dealing with unless we ask. So, please share this story as a reminder to keep a lookout for our elderly neighbors and their furry companions.