When rescuers found Hidey, they were shocked — beneath layers of tangled, matted fur was a cat barely recognizable. Neglected for years,

the 14-year-old feline had suffered because her elderly owner, who had Alzheimer’s, could no longer care for or groom her.

Paul Russell, who discovered Hidey, said in disbelief, “My God, this is a cat!” At first glance, rescuers thought she was

an alien-like creature due to the thick mats covering her body. She was taken to the Animal Rescue League Shelter

& Wildlife Center, where veterinarians carefully shaved away the painful fur that resembled dreadlocks.

Hidey’s story soon became a reminder of how easily pets can suffer when their owners face declining health.

Dan Rossi, the shelter’s CEO, stressed the importance of helping elderly pet owners maintain proper care for their animals.

Thankfully, Hidey recovered and found a loving home with a family member. Her rescue became a powerful

lesson in compassion — that caring for people often means caring for the pets who depend on them, too.