This adorable yet fearful cat has survived unspeakable cruelty and torture. This week, Smurf the kitten was delivered to the San Jose Animal Shelter.
He was covered with bite wounds, abrasions, burns, and other injuries in addition to his purple fur.
Rather than euthanizing Smurf, the shelter notified Monica Rudiger’s Nine Lives Foundation, a rescue organization for injured and neglected cats.
Unfortunately, she’s seen this far too many times to keep track. Smurf’s injuries were consistent with a frightening but little-known practice: people using live kittens as bait for fighting dogs.
“I have no idea what happened to him, but I believe he was used as a chew toy. A cat with several puncture wounds and abrasions lives with us “Rudiger explained. “He won’t tell us what happened to him, but this isn’t the first time I’ve seen something like this. Other animals have been known to utilize kittens as bait and chew toys. To me, it makes logic.”
It is possible to avoid using kittens as live bait. Rudiger explains.
“Every day, cats are utilized as bait for pit bulls in our region. It’s terrifying, to say the least “she stated “That’s why you shouldn’t give out free kittens online; they’ll use them for whatever they want. Who knows what happened to Smurf? I’m curious about the other cats we won’t be able to save.”
Smurf appears to be on the mend, but the scars of maltreatment will likely follow him for the rest of his life.
“We’re never going to be able to get that purple color out of him. He’s shaven, but his hair is still purple. It’s very dark; it’s most likely undiluted clothing dye “Rudiger stated. “I hope everything works out for him, but he appears to be doing very well.”
Many animal lovers are lining up to take him in and give him the home he so sorely needs, but he’ll need a little more time before he can be adopted.
Smurf endured horrendous circumstances, yet his spirit was never broken. He believes that he will be able to find love in his life.
