After spending years surviving on the streets, a cat named Darius finally returned to a neighborhood deck, where he experienced his first night of warmth and comfort.

Darius had likely been a street cat his entire life when a passerby first spotted him. He was in poor condition, with an injured eye and a neck wound.

A local animal rescuer responded to a post about the cat, but Darius had vanished by the time help arrived.

Later, as winter came to a close, Darius reappeared in the area, hungry and desperate for a change. He showed up on a resident’s deck, devouring the food left out for him while peering through the window, curious about the world on the other side of the door.

The rescuer set a humane trap, and Darius, driven by hunger, walked straight in. “In his condition, he wouldn’t have lasted much longer outside,” explained Chatons Orphelins Montreal, an animal rescue organization. That night, Darius finally slept indoors, surrounded by warmth and comfort.

Despite his rough start, Darius was on the path to recovery. He was treated for fleas, parasites, and ear infections; surgery for his eye and extensive dental work was required. Estimated to be around nine years old, Darius began to heal.

“He went to his foster home to recover and regain his strength,” the rescue shared. Darius’s gentle nature soon became apparent. Within a few days, he started to enjoy ear cleanings and grew fond of being petted.

With a cozy room and plenty of food, Darius’s personality began to shine. He watched his foster family go about their day, purring contentedly when they stroked him. “This teddy bear with big paws finally had surgery on his eye and teeth, and now he can eat without pain.”

However, just as his condition seemed to be improving, Darius faced an unexpected setback when his health suddenly declined overnight.

After being rushed to the emergency vet, he was stabilized and treated for complications. “He spent two days in the hospital but soon recovered and started eating on his own again,” said the rescue team.

Now, on a new diet and routine, Darius’s health has continued to improve. His fur became soft and shiny, and his cheerful personality emerged. “He’s been through a lot, but now he’s enjoying his life, and his sweet, teddy bear-like personality shines through.”

With his signature permanent wink and large polydactyl paws, Darius quickly became a beloved member of his foster home.

“He loves snuggling in our arms, rubbing his face against us, and purring. He craves affection and purrs the moment we cuddle him.”

Darius likes to nap nearby or be held like a baby in the evenings. At night, he sleeps close to his humans, his soft side melting hearts.

Now, as an indoor cat, Darius enjoys simple pleasures like basking in the sun by the window. Though older, he still makes playful kitten-like meows when seeking attention.

Darius springs to life when his favorite feather toy emerges, pouncing and playing with youthful energy.

“He’s very playful and loves it when we make time to play with him,” his foster family shared. “We can’t imagine him ever living outside alone. He’s happiest now, receiving endless cuddles and never wanting to be far from us.”

If Darius ever feels uncertain, he seeks comfort by leaning into his people and burying his face in their arms, content once more.

After years of wandering the streets, Darius thrives, living his dream as a cherished indoor cat.

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