A Side of Butter

Butter the cat came to the Home in March 2022 where he instantly won over the staff with his strong headbutts and extremely friendly personality. It was difficult to take any photos or videos of him as all he wanted was to rub himself on you and receive all the pats and cuddles he could get!

There may have been a reason why Butter has the sweetest personality, the vet team discovered that Butter has diabetes in a consultation. If managed correctly, animals with diabetes can live long and healthy lives, but it would take a special type of person to commit to the ongoing medical care that a diagnosis such as diabetes presents.

The search was on to find Butter’s special someone who would commit to daily medical care and showering Butter with the love he deserves. While Butter was featured on the SDCH social media pages quite frequently, encouraging anyone to inquire about Butter and learn more about his diabetes and how to manage it, there wasn’t anyone out there who was willing to give Butter the life he deserved. Until SDCH staff member, Campbell met Butter for the first time.

Campbell, who is the Maintenance & Logistics Officer at the Home, was transporting Butter to Sydney University Vet for additional vet care when Campbell discovered Butter was a diabetic cat. Butter turned on the charm, showing Campbell how friendly and smoochy he is. Campbell says his decision to adopt Butter after that was “A no brainer. This condition would have prolonged his stay with Sydney Dogs & Cats Home.”

Lucky for Butter, Campbell has had experience with diabetic animals having owned a cat who developed diabetes in the last 5 years of his 13 years with Campbell and his family. Campbell adapted quickly, educating himself about what was involved and seeking professional advice. Soon, he created a strict diet and a routine of 12 hourly intervals of insulin dosing and regular trips to the vets to monitor blood glucose levels and adjust insulin doses as required. It is safe to say that Butter is in the best hands possible!

Butter has settled quickly into his new home, including adjusting to life with new siblings; a cat brother named BeeGee and two dog brothers named Toby and Dudley who have all welcomed him into the home. Campbell says, “Butter is very happy exploring and has his comfort zones to chill whenever he wants.”

Campbell’s advice to anyone thinking of fostering or adopting an animal with special needs is; “Go for it! Once you receive your thorough instructions on how to manage your pet’s condition, they’re not too much different to an animal without a medical condition.”

Published 12 May 2022