An obese senior cat who touched hearts after being abandoned and then rescued has died.
Jabba, a 15 year-old 26 pound cat, was just about to get the chance at a good, new chapter in his life when he succumbed to a heart attack and passed away.
Jabba was found in an East Greenwich, Rhode Island park earlier this month after a bystander saw him being let out of a car. Police responded to the scene after being called and found Jabba on the grass. They placed him in a carrier and took him to North Kingstown Animal Hospital for care. The cat was released and transferred to the East Greenwich Animal Protection League a couple of days later.
East Greenwich Animal Protection League shelter staff and vets treated Jabba for the effects of neglect, starting by shaving off his matted and soiled fur. They set out to help the cat to carefully lose weight and to regain his mobility. Once his tangled fur was cut off it was easier for Jabba to move.
We shared Jabba’s story on September 23, in our post, Neglected obese senior cat is dumped in park. Jabba’s story received prominent coverage in the US and UK, which led to a number of offers to adopt him, as well as several claims of ownership. One claim from someone who said Jabba had been their childhood pet seemed plausible, but the person had yet to meet with shelter staff when we read of their claim.
Jabba sadly passed away before he could either go back to a former owner or find a loving new home. He was surrounded by love and comfort and was provided with care in the final weeks before he died.
Jabba’s passing was announced last Saturday, on the day he was scheduled to meet with the public. People claiming he was their cat, people wanting to offer him a home, and well wishers offering their support were all expected to visit him that day.
EGAPL wrote at Facebook on Saturday, September 26: May you rest easy our beautiful big boy Jabba…knowing that so many people loved you! Your story will live on and we hope that your story will help other animals just like you! Our hope is that you are at peace and running free over the Rainbow Bridge…you are the real hero…you changed our lives just by knowing you! We will never forget you dear Jabba.
