When they found Hidey on the streets, they knew it was in dire straits. Cats are seen as independent, but some breeds need regular grooming. Hidey suffered neglect for years because her owner couldn’t groom her. Rescuers initially mistook her for an alien-like creature due to her matted fur.

Paul Russell, who stumbled upon her, said, “My god, this is a cat!”Hidey, a 14-year-old cat, was saved by an animal-loving couple and taken to the Animal Rescue League Shelter & Wildlife Center.

Neglect resulted from her owner’s Alzheimer’s, leaving Hidey unable to groom herself. She became a symbol of caring for elderly people and their pets.