A street cat climbed a fence to enter a backyard. One day, he began to trust, revealing his true self.
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A few months ago, a tom cat with large cheeks appeared near the home of a kind-hearted woman who cares for community cats in her neighborhood.
The cat was terrified of people and would dash away and hide whenever he saw them. But as his hunger overcame his fear, he found the courage to leave the alleyway and enter the woman's backyard in search of food.
Not only did he find plenty to eat, but he also discovered cozy cat shelters where he could get some well-deserved rest.
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Over time, the cat warmed up to his caretaker and the feeding routine. With his trust slowly building, his fearful demeanor softened. His caretaker noticed something special in him and was determined to give him a chance at a better life.
When no one came forward to claim the cat, it was time to bring him inside.
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With the support of Tails High, an animal rescue, they brought him to safety and lovingly named him Noodle. Cathy, a foster volunteer, welcomed him into her care.
For the first few days, Noodle was frightened and bewildered, hiding under the desk as he tried to make sense of his new surroundings. It took three days before he realized his predicament wasn't so bad and that he no longer had to fend for himself.
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"When he first started to trust me, he let me pet his head and briefly held my hand. He was so incredibly freaked out those first few days that when I could touch him, all I could do was cry happy tears," Cathy shared with Love Meow.
"That's when I knew it was going to work out with him inside."
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In less than two weeks, Cathy watched him transform from hiding and refusing food to seeking attention, pets, and treats. He showed how comfortable he'd become by rolling onto his back, inviting belly rubs.
"From a scared street cat to a giant love bug, he is a brave and special man."
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Noodle went to the vet for a full range of treatments. He was estimated to be two years old and weighed an impressive 12.8 pounds. With his newfound confidence, he quickly won over the veterinary staff.
"When I picked him up, they were all sad to see him go, and I heard a collective 'aww' when they found out he was leaving to go home."
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For most of his life, Noodle had to fight for survival on the streets and wanted nothing to do with people. But once he experienced the good life, his true affectionate self emerged. While snow piled up outside, he was content and cozy, snuggling up with his human without a care in the world.
"He is such a sweet guy with a personality to match his cheeks."
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Chin scratches are the way to his heart. He enjoys lying on his back with his belly exposed and insists on pets and kisses on his forehead. He's quite the expert at getting what he wants.
When he was a street cat, he'd turn away whenever someone tried to take his picture. Now, "he's a huge ham for the camera."
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With all the toys and treats his heart desires, Noodle is living the dream life. He's no longer that shy boy but a confident star, always in the spotlight.
He's ready to find a forever home—"something even I would not have imagined was possible for him based on his behavior the day I first met him," the caretaker shared. "I'm so glad we live in a world where second chances are possible."
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Noodle has come a long way since he first showed up in the backyard. He's blossomed into the sweetest cat, and his larger-than-life personality is shining through.
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Share this story with your friends. More on Noodle and Tails High on Instagram and Facebook. Thanks to Cathy @holbrook.cat.house and @friendsofharley.
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