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Nona's story and why we do what we do

Listen to Nona, what we hear all day! lol

Nona’s Story: From Frail to Family

When we were first called by trapper John DeBacker about a senior cat named Nona, we knew she needed help. She was frail, had multiple medical concerns, and could barely see—but she still had an appetite and a quiet spirit. At our café, Feral to Family, she preferred to stay curled up in her cozy bed inside an open crate, watching the world go by.

During one of our weekly veterinary visits, our vet discovered Nona had an irregular heartbeat and other serious issues. She gently suggested we take her home on hospice care, believing Nona had only a short time left. That was over a year ago.

Today, Nona still rests in her bed on a table by the dining room window. She eats well, uses her litter box faithfully, and finds comfort in her safe little space. Recently, she began making long, random howls, and after another vet visit we learned she has feline dementia.

What is Feline Dementia?

Just like humans, senior cats can develop cognitive decline. Feline dementia—sometimes called cognitive dysfunction syndrome—causes disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, confusion, and vocalization (such as the howls we now hear from Nona). While it can’t be cured, cats can still live comfortably with care, patience, and love.

Why We Do This

Some might say the “right” thing would be to let Nona go. But she is still eating, resting peacefully, and enjoying her window view. She is comfortable, and she is loved. This is what rescue is about—giving cats, even those overlooked, a chance at dignity and peace.

Rescue work isn’t easy. Kitten season is overwhelming, and right now we are caring for 135 cats and kittens. It’s all-consuming, financially draining, and emotionally heavy. Our own family sometimes wonders why we put ourselves through it. But then we see Nona: howling one moment, then soothed by soft music, happily eating her favorite meal, and drifting off to sleep in her warm bed. In that moment, it’s all worth it.

No Cat Left Behind

At Feral to Family and Catpurrccinos, we believe every cat deserves a chance—whether it’s rambunctious kittens or fragile seniors like Nona. We will never give up on a cat unless they are truly suffering.

Thank you to everyone who supports our mission. You are not just donors, visitors, or friends—you are family.