“Last summer, we trapped three older cats from a huge colony,ˮ says Lauren Sykes, founder of Loki’s Light. Based just north of Charlotte, she works to trap, neuter, and vaccinate displaced and feral cats, provide food and ongoing care, and rehome when possible.

“Being part of the animal rescue community, we get to see all different shades of neglect, abuse and abandonment,” she continues. “Among the many cats that get dealt this hand are the old seniors whose bodies are weakening, fur is thinning, and eyesight is fading; and yet they are left to fight for themselves during the most vulnerable time- aging.“

From a colony of over 75 cats, they’ve managed to reduce the number to just around 20. “Everyone loves a baby kitten, their youthfulness, how tiny and innocent- but many adopters won’t take the risk on a senior cat due to the ‘unknown’ in their past,” Lauren says. “We always know when we come across a senior cat in need, Laps & Naps will try everything in their power to make sure they find these cats the perfect retirement home.”

For Lion (13), Smokey (12), and Toad (10), this partnership meant a second chance at life: a safe, comfortable life without struggle, illness, or hunger. All three had been on the streets their entire lives, with every day becoming more challenging as they aged. Poor Lion was pregnant and gave birth just days after being rescued, and Toad is nearly deaf with a deformed ear from old infections.

Today, Lion and Smokey (together!) and Toad (whom we shared on our page but was adopted through Loki’s Light) are getting the care they always deserved, with people who love them. We’re grateful to Lauren for her hard work saving these lives, and our foster parents, adopters, and donors who make this work possible!

~

Foster parents are the backbone of Laps and Naps, and are urgently needed. All expenses are covered: fostering doesn’t cost you a thing but your time and love. Click here to learn more or apply today.