The story of Gussy, the Abu Dhabi cat who waited months by a bus stop after being dumped there by his owners, has received an overwhelming response from UAE residents.
"Oh my god, all the tears," wrote Viviana Villasmil on The National's Facebook page, a sentiment echoed in the many emails and messages sent by those expressing concern for his well-being or offering him a home.
Gussy, as he was named by the people who have been feeding him, spent the last four months glued to the area around a bus stop in Al Bateen where witnesses claim his owners "tossed him out of a car".
"I'm really pleased and overwhelmed by the response to his story," said Jo Cathrine, who has recently taken Gussy in. "It really shows just how many people care."
This week Gussy has been checked over by the British Veterinary Centre in Khalidiya — which gives special rates to those who bring in sick or injured street cats. Overall he was found to be in good health despite needing medication for ear mites.
Since he is not microchipped and no one has claimed him, Gussy will now be placed with one of the many members of the public who have offered him a permanent home.
"We just have to make sure he's not going to get left again," said Ms Cathrine, who is unable to take him on herself as she is already looking after a number of street cats.
"I would love to keep him — when you look at his little face, he's so happy to be inside.
"I just wish people could do this for every cat because there are hundreds out there that need homes, especially at this time of year."
Ms Cathrine highlighted the need to raise awareness of the plight of Abu Dhabi's street cats, but warned the public not to randomly take in cats from the street without checking if they already had owners.
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Read more:
A quick guide to helping street cats in the UAE
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