JUPITER, Fla. — When the Saving Sage Animal Rescue Foundation received an email from a local shelter about Buttons, a 20-year-old cat surrendered by his owner earlier this month, the plea stood out—even for a group accustomed to heartbreaking cases.
The shelter’s message described Buttons as initially seeming “anti-social” but noted how he softened when given affection. “When we gave his back a good scratch, he really seemed to enjoy it,” the email read.
Kathy Bieniek, vice president of the Florida-based rescue, knew immediate action was needed. “He wasn’t up for adoption because of his age, so he needed rescue,” Bieniek tells PEOPLE. She retrieved Buttons on Tuesday, determined to secure him a loving home.
Despite his advanced years—and a talkative demeanor during his vet visit—Buttons faced an uncertain future. His story, shared on Facebook by the rescue, sparked outrage and sympathy.
“Yes, you read that correctly—this cat is 20 years old. He was dumped at the shelter with some of his siblings. Heartbreaking, isn’t it?” the post read.
The response was swift. Among those moved was Jennifer, a Jupiter resident with a soft spot for senior pets. After seeing the post, she applied to adopt Buttons, who is currently receiving treatment for tapeworms and dehydration.
“She saw this story, and it touched her heart,” Bieniek says. “She’s a wonderful foster mom with a special place for seniors—she just adopted a 15-year-old cat from an elderly owner last week.”
Buttons is expected to go home with Jennifer on Monday. Meanwhile, his younger feline siblings remain at the shelter, available for adoption.
“I hope he lives out his life getting the love he deserves,” Bieniek says. “Nobody should be disposed of like garbage.”
To support the rescue’s efforts for animals like Buttons, donations can be made through the [Saving Sage Animal Rescue Foundation’s website](insert link).
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