Dutchess County, NY — After more than two years in a shelter, Annie, a black cat with a rare neurological condition, has finally found her forever home—one that understands her needs like no other.
A Rocky Start
Annie arrived at the Dutchess County SPCA (DCSPCA) in June 2021, surrendered by a healthcare worker caring for her previous owner, who suffered from dementia.
“Annie hadn’t received proper medical attention due to her owner’s illness, so we made it our mission to figure out what was wrong and how to help her,” said Lynne Meloccaro, DCSPCA’s executive director.
Diagnosis and Recovery
After months of observation, veterinarians diagnosed Annie with feline hyperesthesia, a rare disorder causing seizures that led to severe anxiety and self-harm.
“One moment she’d be fine, the next, she’d suddenly bite her own tail out of distress. She couldn’t even be comforted during episodes because touch would agitate her further,” Meloccaro explained.
The shelter placed Annie in a quiet foster home for eight months, where she stabilized on anti-seizure medication. Her condition improved dramatically—her seizures lessened, and her injured tail healed. However, she would need lifelong medication, a factor that deterred many potential adopters.
The Long Wait for the Right Match
“Most people asked, ‘Why adopt a cat with special needs when others don’t require extra care? ’” Meloccaro said. “But we refused to give up on her.”
That persistence paid off in 2025, when Renee, a woman with epilepsy from Sturge-Weber Syndrome, read about Annie’s two-year wait and knew she had to help.
“As someone with a rare condition, I understood her struggles. The idea of her waiting so long broke my heart—I was determined to change that,” Renee told PEOPLE.
A New Life as Tapenade
Now renamed Tapenade, the once-overlooked cat is thriving in her new home. Though initially shy, she’s grown curious, playful, and affectionate, often curling up with Renee for cuddles.
“She’s carved out her favorite spot by the window and is slowly warming up to her new cat siblings,” Renee shared. “Watching her overcome her fears has been incredibly rewarding.”
For DCSPCA, the adoption marks a heartwarming victory.
“When a long-term resident like Annie finds the perfect home, it’s magical,” Meloccaro said. “Renee’s empathy and understanding make this match truly special.”
With her medical needs managed and a loving owner by her side, Tapenade’s long wait for happiness has finally ended.
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