Overweight Cat Seeks "Feline Personal Trainer" To Adopt Him And Help Him Reach His Weightloss Goals
Charlie is a 9-year-old cat with big goals and an even bigger body, and his shelter situation is turning into a very specific kind of love story.
When Charlie arrived at Feline Friends Chicago, he tipped the scale at 26.5 pounds, after a former family chose to have his front paws declawed. Add in the back problems his weight has caused, and suddenly playtime and “catting” are harder than they should be. The rescue team also knows he was in mostly good health, but keeping him that way means he needs serious weight loss, fast enough to help but careful enough to stay safe.
So now the hunt is on for the one forever human who can be Charlie’s “feline personal trainer” and help him keep shrinking, one step at a time.
Nine-year-old Charlie weighed 26.5 pounds when he first arrived at Feline Friends Chicago.

Charlie's former family made the decision to have his front paws declawed, which can lead to permanent problems for a cat.

Due to Charlie's weight, he has back problems that make it difficult for him to move around and play as much as he'd like.

"He just doesn't feel much like catting because he's so heavy."

Charlie was in mostly good health when he arrived at the shelter, but for him to stay that way, his rescuers know he desperately needs to lose weight.

With that in mind, Charlie's rescue team is on the hunt for someone who wants to be a personal trainer for the adorable, chunky boy!

"Charlie has lost over five pounds in the last five months, and now tips the scales at 21 pounds."

Now all he needs is to find his perfect forever family to help him continue achieving those goals.

"He wants a human who will make his life better, so Charlie can make their life better."

Charlie’s story started with a shelter arrival at 26.5 pounds, but the real plot twist is how his past declaw decision and current back issues changed everything about his daily life.
And if you think weight issues are tough, see how the cat mom cried out over her husband fat-shaming their cat.
Right now, Feline Friends Chicago is watching the numbers closely because Charlie has already dropped over five pounds in five months, and that momentum matters.
Still, it’s not just about weight, it’s about whether Charlie can feel like himself again, because the shelter says he “doesn’t feel much like catting” when he’s too heavy to move comfortably.
The shelter is basically asking for a very particular kind of adopter, someone who will keep Charlie’s routine going so he can reach his goals and make life better for both of them.
If you're located in the Chicago area and would like to know more about Charlie, you can find Feline Friends Chicago's details on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Do you think you have what it takes to help Charlie reach his weight-loss goals?
It's important to note that every cat is unique and has different dietary needs, so it's crucial to consult with a vet before putting your furry friend on a diet. Losing too much weight too quickly can lead to liver disease, which can be fatal in some cases.
Charlie doesn’t just want a home, he wants a human who will help him feel good enough to finally be a cat again.
Want another weight-loss comeback? Read how Patches, the 40-pound cat, started a special diet after adoption.