14-Year-Old Cat Returned to Shelter After Losing Her Human Is Heartbroken and Lonely
Some pets end up returning to shelters after adoption for various reasons including financial difficulties, illness, and relocation. Losing their home only to end up back in a chaotic shelter environment can be traumatizing for a dog or cat, where they feel lost and abandoned.
Ruby is a 14-year-old cat who was brought to NAWS Humane Society after her parent fell seriously ill. Now the senior kitty is hoping for another chance at happiness.
@franflight My heart broke when I saw Ruby was back with us. No senior deserves to be in the shelter at her age, and no cat deserves to not have a stable home. When Ruby first came to us she was incredibly scared, but she warmed up SO quickly. I'm hoping this video reaches her forever family. If you are interested in adopting Ruby please submit a cat adoption application at nawsus.org and feel free to message me if you have any questions. As always, i'm sending you guys all of my love. Thank you for helping me help Ruby. #adopt#adoptdontshop#cat#catsoftiktok#catadoption
original sound - okayyevan
In the TikTok from @franflight, Ruby was lying sadly in her kennel as a staff member gently gave her some much-needed affection.
"Ruby has found herself in a shelter at 14 years old," the onscreen text explained. "Ruby's parent went into hospice care and was unable to care for her."
The sweet cat loved being held and petted, as she tried to soak in every bit of attention. Ruby even followed the NAWS staffer around from room to room for constant companionship.
"If there's one thing we know about Ruby, it's that she hates being alone," the story shared.
Apparently, the feline fur baby has had a difficult year, with a lot of tumult and little security.
"Before her previous parent, Ruby was found abandoned outside," the text continued. "Her next home will be her third in less than a year. She's had so much instability."
Ruby Is a Love Bug
The senior cat has chronic kidney disease, impaired vision, and some minor mobility issues in her hips. Despite these ailments that come with aging, Ruby's loving spirit and gentle nature are incredibly strong.
Several clips in the video featured Ruby snuggling and cuddling with the shelter staff member, clearly content with just being held. The precious kitty loves companionship and would make a wonderful addition to a loving family.
The TikTok creator hopes that the post will bring Ruby a new home.
"When Ruby first came to us, she was incredibly scared, but she warmed up SO quickly," the caption read. "I'm hoping this video reaches her forever family."
For more information on Ruby or NAWS Humane Society, visit their website.
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This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 8:10 AM.