JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO – When “Big Bertha,” a severely overweight cat, arrived at the Jefferson County Humane Society in late February, shelter staff were stunned. Despite her small frame and short legs, the feline tipped the scales at 21 pounds—so heavy that staff had to use a dog scale to weigh her.
Brandi DeNoon-Damewood, the shelter’s development manager, told The Dodo that Bertha was the most disproportionately overweight cat she’d seen in her decade of working with shelter animals.
“We’ve had obese cats before—some even heavier—but none as tiny as Bertha,” DeNoon-Damewood said. “Her dainty frame simply couldn’t support that weight.”
A Long Road to Recovery
Upon arrival, Bertha faced multiple health challenges, including infected and broken teeth, mobility issues, and breathing difficulties. Veterinarians placed her on a strict weight management plan, wound care regimen, and assisted exercise using a sling.
Her previous owner surrendered her after struggling to provide the necessary medical care. Shelter staff suspect Bertha’s weight gain stemmed from dental pain, which limited her diet to soft food.
“Like humans, cats can become addicted to the comfort of a full belly,” DeNoon-Damewood explained. “We believe she was once a stray, which may have led to food insecurity and overeating later in life.”
Transformation and a New Beginning
After undergoing dental surgery and losing five pounds by late March, Bertha’s personality began to shine. Once quiet and fearful, she became vocal and affectionate, eagerly seeking attention from staff.
“Before, she’d complain when we moved her,” DeNoon-Damewood said. “Now, she’s vibrant, social, and full of love.”
In early April, Bertha was adopted into a forever home, where her new owner is committed to continuing her weight loss journey.
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