National

Senior cat deserted by lifelong family for avoiding litter box. Turns out, he was ill

Leo is now feeling much better.
Leo is now feeling much better. Photo grab from Humane Society for Hamilton County (Indiana) Facebook

An affectionate, senior cat is on the hunt for a new home in Indiana after being abandoned by the only family he’s ever known thanks to his bathroom issues.

Leonardo DiCatrio — yes, that’s his name — a domestic short hair mix kitty, is in need of a new family after he was left at the Humane Society for Hamilton County in Fishers, for doing his business anywhere but his own litter box, the shelter said in a Nov. 23 Facebook post.

“Although I am not an artist and have never painted any French ladies, I think my name is rather dashing! I have lived with my family all my life and am 10 years old. I am solid grey with a white necktie and golden/green eyes,” the shelter said. “My owner surrendered me to the HSHC because I sometimes avoided the litter box over the last year.”

Turns out, it wasn’t Leo’s fault. Stress and particular ailments plagued the senior cat, causing him hardship.

“The HSHC staff reports that living with children (1, 2, and 7 years old, who pulled my tail), living with another cat and a dog, being declawed on my front paws, and having diabetes were all sources of stress for me,” the shelter continued. “Since being at the HSHC, I have been treated for a URI and my diabetes.”

Healthier, Leo happily uses his litter box (without fail, the shelter noted) and has even made some friends around the shelter. The sweet cat is in need of a calm home where affection can be dished out without worries.

“I am pleased and very excited about moving in with a new forever family who will understand my needs and provide me with the care and love I deserve,” the shelter said.

For more information regarding Leo, visit the shelter’s website.

Fishers is around a 20-mile drive northeast from Indianapolis.

This story was originally published November 26, 2024 at 9:32 AM with the headline "Senior cat deserted by lifelong family for avoiding litter box. Turns out, he was ill."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER