Milo

Milo was a resilient, incredibly small stray cat with dwarfism who had likely been surviving thanks to a kind feeder who provided food but no shelter.

Milo’s journey took a drastic turn when he was hit by a car, leaving him in dire straits. When Milo was rescued, he was at death's door with infected wounds and broken legs. Despite these severe injuries, there was hope for Milo. The vets at Medivet gave him emergency surgery and saved his life. tummy from emergency stitches. The rescue center speculated that he was not entirely feral since he seemed familiar with humans, perhaps born in a home and then abandoned. After a thorough medical check, it was clear Milo needed an extended foster period to recover from his leg fractures and internal injuries. His road to recovery required a strict medication schedule, careful monitoring of his food intake, and regular vet visits.

Bex, a full time social media manager living in London, first saw Milo’s picture on Instagram: Protected Paws had posted a photo of his tiny face peeking out from behind the bars of a cage. There was something about Milo that tugged at her heartstrings. The application to foster him was straightforward, even though she had no prior experience with cats. A volunteer called to explain the fostering process to her: it was cost-free aside from providing space, and Bex would have to ensure that Milo would remain inside the flat at all times.When Bex arrived to pick up Milo, she was briefed on his history. His tiny, scarred body and large eyes only strengthened her resolve to give him a safe space to heal. As she opened his carrier in her living room, Milo immediately ran to her, headbutting her and following her everywhere, creating an instant bond.

Over the next few weeks, Bex carefully followed his medication schedule and adjusted her life around his needs. Despite initial troubles with the cone, advice from other volunteers through the Protected Paws Whatsapp group helped Bex care for Milo and helped her manage Milo’s anxiety, allowing him to recover without additional stress. As Milo became more confident and active Bex bought Milo a scratching post and a cat hammock. They spent many hours cuddling on the sofa and playing with his favourite toys - balled up pieces of baking sheet. Although the responsibility of caring for a stray seemed daunting initially, she cherished the growing bond they were forming.

Bex felt a mixture of sadness and relief when she was told that Milo had grown strong and healthy enough to be put up for adoption. She understood the importance of letting him find a permanent home, but had grown accustomed to his presence, the routines they developed, and the bond they shared. Admittedly, the prospect of regaining her own space was also appealing. Fostering Milo had been a deeply rewarding experience – she experienced companionship, love and a deep satisfaction from helping an animal in need by sharing her space with a convalescent cat. Unsurprisingly, it wasn’t long before a young couple fell in love with Milo and applied to adopt him. Bex’s work as a cat fosterer was done – Milo had found a forever home.