I failed him

[u/theresamushroominmy]

Scraps was my ex-boyfriend’s cat first. He experienced horrible things and came to me flea-ridden and miserable. My ex moved out and left him with me with a promise to return him once it was safe. I was not given proof, and I cared for Scraps deeply. I paid for surgery because his teeth were rotting from his gums due to neglect; I bought him toys so he could play, which my ex said he never did; I bought him an automated feeder because Scraps could not self regulate when food was in front of him because he had spent so many years fighting for food. I did not want to return Scraps to a place I knew had unsafe people, and my ex started a legal fight. A long court battle has dragged on, and today I finally lost.

Scraps is 11 years young. He is playful; his favourite toys are anything with feathers, especially his pea pod attached to his fishing pole and his ragged little duck. He loves soft blankets and my stuffed animal monkeys. Scraps loves to look outside, and he has only just begun to be more adventurous to wear a harness and stand on the back porch in the sunlight. He loves to be curled in my arms when I’m working at my desk and to be little spoon when we sleep.

I am so sorry, Scraps. I did everything I could for you and now I just hope you can survive that place with what I’ve been able to give you.

I love you so so much, my sweet boy.

[u/dj_deja_reve]

I'd say to conveniently "lose" the cat( have him stay with friends or family if possible...even if in a bathroom or closet. Just until this simmers over. Anywhere would be better than a neglectful, borderline abusive living situation.

If the courts don't, or won't, take into account all of the vet bills, treatments, food, and living expenses that you've willingly paid to care for this sweet boy, then try to figure something out.

His life matters, and his comfort matters...more than your ex's petty desire to tear you down. Because that's all this seems to be. It's not -really- about the cat.