Bazooka, a 35-pound majestic chonk of a cat, finds a new home through Wake SPCA
The story of Bazooka, the 35-pound cat currently under the care of the SPCA of Wake County, is as much about the dangers of overfeeding pets as it is about not judging a cat’s circumstances by its dimensions.
When photos of this 5-year-old dark orange majestic beast landed on the Wake SPCA social media accounts Tuesday, some comments were directed toward the cat’s previous owners, lamenting the irresponsible care that led to Bazooka’s generous girth.
In truth, Bazooka’s story has a sadder layer. According to Wake SPCA communications director Darci VanderSlik, Bazooka was taken in by a rescue group in Davidson County after his owner died. The owner suffered from dementia, and they think Bazooka’s weight problem is a result of his owner constantly refilling his dish, not remembering the cat had already been fed.
“He thought he was doing the best thing for his cat by feeding him,” VanderSlik said. “We need to look on this with a compassionate view. He was loved.”
In his short time with the Wake SPCA workers and volunteers, Bazooka has become a bit of a celebrity. His foster mother, Michelle Barry of Raleigh, sat patiently in the lobby Wednesday afternoon while Bazooka sat (or rather, lay) for photo shoots and interviews in a nearby room. Staff marveled at his good looks and sweet temperament — and his length. While inarguably overweight, Bazooka is quite long, and even after weight loss will likely be a big boy.
Barry had only had Bazooka at her home for about 24 hours as of Wednesday afternoon, but she said in that time he has been comfortable and seems to be very bonded with people.
“He wants to be around people,” Barry said. “He’s happiest lying right next to you. And he’s more active than I expected him to be.”
Barry, whose family has been fostering cats with the SPCA for almost a year, said Bazooka is playful and likes to explore, and even jumped onto a bed without assistance.
The lovable chonk is on a special diet now and hasn’t complained about it at all, which will be good news for his new owners. In fact, he already has a new forever home lined up.
VanderSlik hopes Bazooka’s new owners will provide updates and keep in touch, but in any case, she hopes his brief moment in the spotlight will remind people of the dangers of overfeeding pets, which can lead to serious health problems.
“We don’t know a lot of the back stories of the animals we get, but we try not to judge people or make people feel bad about the circumstances that led to their surrender,” VanderSlik said. “We’re really lucky to have the resources to take him in and help him get a home he deserves.”
You can’t get Bazooka, but ...
Even though Bazooka has been claimed, there are many other cats and dogs at the SPCA adoption center eagerly awaiting homes.
If Bazooka has you craving an orange tabby, VanderSlik recommends Arnold, a playful 5-year-old who enjoys staring out the window at squirrels and doing cat yoga poses. Like Bazooka, Arnold has some special needs. He is diabetic and on insulin to help regulate his blood sugar, but his care isn’t difficult.
The center has around 30 adoptable cats at any given time, plus 15-20 dogs.
If you’d like more information about adopting a pet or donating to care for homeless pets, contact the SPCA of Wake County through its website (spcawake.org) or by calling 919-772-2326.
