Rizal
Senior + Special Needs Cat
Unlike his namesake, our little hero was not isolated at the PAWS Sick Bay for literary treason (although we have no doubt that his ex-purrr-riences would have made amazing meow-moirs). Multiple times, Rizal (the cat) was released into the Catteries. Multiple times, he refused to socialize with other cats.
Cats like Rizal are anti-social, and forcing them to get along in the densely populated Catteries of PAWS causes immense amounts of stress, taking a toll on their health. While living in a small cage was not ideal, releasing him into a larger space would cause him to lose weight, shed fur, and start violent fights with the other cats.
It took years, but the only compromise they could make so that Rizal would not have to live in a tiny cage was to place him in the Special Needs area with only a few other cats. After all, aren’t psychosocial issues considered special needs?
Rizal
Unlike his namesake, our little hero was not isolated at the PAWS Sick Bay for literary treason (although we have no doubt that his ex-purrr-riences would have made amazing meow-moirs). Multiple times, Rizal (the cat) was released into the Catteries. Multiple times, he refused to socialize with other cats.
Cats like Rizal are anti-social, and forcing them to get along in the densely populated Catteries of PAWS causes immense amounts of stress, taking a toll on their health. While living in a small cage was not ideal, releasing him into a larger space would cause him to lose weight, shed fur, and start violent fights with the other cats.
It took years, but the only compromise they could make so that Rizal would not have to live in a tiny cage was to place him in the Special Needs area with only a few other cats. After all, aren’t psychosocial issues considered special needs?
Become Rizal's BFF
Now that Rizal is living at our sanctuary, we try to give him privacy and space which is what he prefers. As a senior with cat with a history of dental issues, he’s on a diet of softened low-sodium kibble mixed with wet food and sometimes boild fish. Can you help us maintain his diet and help him live longer?
Rizal's Wishlist
- Wet cat food
- Low-sodium cat kibble
- Scratch boards
- Scratch posts
- Cat litter
- Litter box
When you become Rizal's BFF, you will receive monthly newsletters with updates on his well-being. You may also request for a 5-minute Zoom call so you can see how he's doing.
Rescue Story
These photos of Rizal from 2015 were taken in his early years, spent at the PAWS Sick Bay. He was rescued with 2 other cats, but he spent most of his days in isolation.
