OTTAWA, Canada — A rescued cat named Axel, affectionately dubbed “Biggie Smalls,” has captured hearts worldwide as his owner documents his remarkable weight loss journey on social media.
According to CTV News Ottawa, Axel was surrendered to a local shelter earlier this year, weighing a staggering 43 pounds. Kristine Segui, his new owner and an animal rescue advocate, took him in and began a strict regimen of a specialized diet and exercise. Since February, the feline has shed an impressive 10 pounds, with Segui calling his progress “incredible.”
“Our goal isn’t just weight loss—it’s about him being a cat again,” Segui told the outlet. “Jumping on things, enjoying life. He’s only seven—he has so much time left, and we want him to live it to the fullest.”
A Social Media Sensation
Segui began sharing Axel’s transformation on TikTok in February, where his journey quickly gained traction. One post introduced him with the caption: “Meet Axel aka Biggie Smalls. He was surrendered to a local shelter this week at a whopping 43lbs.”
Follow-up videos tracked his progress, with one noting, “He may be a thicc boy now, but this beautiful dude is on his way to a much better life.” Another post humorously acknowledged his struggles: “Axel is hungry allll the time, but he’s doing the best he can with diet and exercise.”
In a recent milestone update, Segui celebrated Axel’s official weigh-in, writing excitedly: “A very special OFFICIAL Weigh-in Friday!!!!!! This is the one that counts!! WE DID IT!! Go Biggie or go home baby!!!!”
A Growing Fanbase & Future Goals
Axel’s journey has amassed over 130,000 followers, with fans eagerly tuning in for weekly updates. Segui hopes he can lose another 10 to 15 pounds in the coming year.
As the director of Ferdinand and Friends Animal Rescue Network, Segui has also launched a fundraiser to help other overweight cats. Reflecting on Axel’s impact, she said, “I’ve fostered hundreds of cats, but he’s like a toddler—he’s part of our family now.”
Axel’s story follows other viral pet weight-loss journeys, such as Patches, a 40-pound rescue cat who shed 15 pounds after adoption. With his growing fanbase, Axel’s transformation continues to inspire—one pound at a time.
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