A poor cat named Hidey was spotted covered in pounds of matted fur, resembling ‘dreadlocks’.
A neglected cat named Hidey was found with severe matting, resembling dreadlocks, after her elderly owner could no longer care for her.
The 14-year-old calico’s fur woes lasted for years until she was rescued.
The cat Hidey was abandoned with severe matting.
Hidey’s story began when her 82-year-old owner, who had Alzheimer’s, was moved to a nursing home.
A relative, Paul Russell, decided to check on the cat left behind. Initially, he thought there was only one cat in the home.
But upon investigation, he discovered Hidey, a “huge creature” darting out from under the bed and hiding in the cellar. Russell mistook her for a cat with a blanket draped over her back due to her severely matted fur.
Hidey was spotted with severe matting in her fur. She was reported to be so neglected that the matting formed thick dreadlocks, each measuring 6 to 8 inches
The matting was severe, containing both fur and feces, and she was also found to be obese.
The Western PA Humane Society explained that overweight cats often struggle to groom themselves, leading to such matting issues.
Hidey was rescued and had her tangled fur shaved off
Russell brought Hidey to the Animal Rescue League Shelter & Wildlife Center in Pittsburgh. The center shared her story on social media, revealing that Hidey suffered from years of neglect, which led to the tangled fur.
The medical team at the shelter had to sedate Hidey to remove the matted fur.
It took hours to carefully shave off around two pounds of intertwined fur. The team ensured she was comfortable throughout the process.
After the procedure, Hidey was finally free from her painful dreadlocks. The shelter expressed their relief, noting how much better she felt after the removal.
Caitlin Lasky from the Western PA Humane Society stated, “Hidey is getting acclimated at her new home, and there are hopes she will warm up to her new owners now that she is feeling better.”
Hidey has been given a second chance at a new life
Following her rescue, Hidey was placed in Russell’s care, where she joined another 17-year-old cat named Siam.
Russell, who now lives with five cats and two dogs, noted that Hidey was named for her habit of hiding.
Initially, she continued to stay under the bed, only coming out when coaxed. However, she began to venture out on her own, settling into a cat bed and slowly becoming more comfortable in her new environment.
Now free from her heavy, matted fur, Hidey is beginning a new chapter.
Her rescue has brought attention to the importance of pet care, especially for animals owned by those who may not be able to provide proper care due to age or illness.
“Free of all the matted hair and dreadlocks, Hidey is feeling so much better and can finally have a chance at a happy and healthy life,” said the rescue team.
Now, Hidey has a fresh start for a better chance at a healthy life.
