14-Year-Old Blind and Deaf Cat 'Still Has a Strong Will to Live' Despite Ending Up in a Shelter
Senior dogs and cats in shelters often get passed over for adoption due to their age and potential health issues. These wonderful fur babies hope for a forever home just like their younger furry friends and have so much to offer a loving family.
Joe is a 14-year-old blind and deaf cat currently staying at the NAWS Humane Society. Despite his senior status and physical challenges, this sweet cat has more life left to live.
@franflight Joe deserves to live whatever time he has left in a comfortable home. We should have Joe's bloodwork results back tomorrow, but for now he's comfortable with us. Animal control said that Joe has a, "strong will to live"… and that's where the water works started. Joe primarily sleeps throughout the day, except for meal time of course. If you are willing to make Joe apart of your home regardless of his medical/hospice state please e-mail me directly or message me. I'm sending you guys all of my love as always. Let's find Joe's person. #adopt#adoptdontshop#cat#catsoftiktok#catadoption
Sand Drawing - Judah Earl
The TikTok from @franflight told Joe's story and gave some details on his medical condition.
"Joe is blind and deaf," the on-screen text shared as the NAWS staff member spent some one-on-one time with the pretty kitty. "At 14 years old, he's at the shelter. We are anticipating that Joe will become a hospice cat as we wait for his bloodwork to come back."
The feline fur baby was found as a stray, so the shelter doesn't have extensive background information on Joe's history. He is not neutered and is positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.
In spite of these issues, Joe clearly has a huge heart and a sense of adventure, and animal control officers noted that he has a "strong will to live."
"We do know that Joe is a great lap cat," the story continued. "He has a great appetite, and he likes to explore."
What to Know Before Adopting a Senior Cat With Special Needs
Parenting a special-needs cat comes with challenges and a great deal of responsibility. Some things to consider before adopting one of these wonderful cats include:
- Commitment - These felines often require daily medication, prescription diets, regular grooming and bathing, and environmental modification.
- Safe environment - Specific safeguarding is sometimes necessary such as blocked access to stairs and windows, special food bowls, and easily accessible litter boxes.
- Cost - Some special needs cats require frequent veterinary care, medication, and prescription diet, which can impact finances.
- Advanced care - Injections and other procedures may be necessary to administer at home, so make sure you are comfortable with what is required.
Related: Senior Cat Claims Golden Retriever Puppy's 'Bedroom' As His Own, and Paws Fly
Caring for these wonderful cats is a rewarding experience and provides these loving felines with a full and happy life. Being aware of everything involved in their care can help you decide if you are ready for this special role.
Joe is still hoping for his forever home and is getting the care he needs while he waits.
"We love you Joe," the video concluded. "We will find you a home soon."
For more information on Joe or NAWS Humane Society, visit their website.
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This story was originally published June 27, 2026 at 4:10 PM.