Battle-Scarred Cat Looks like a Tough Guy, But It’s Actually the Sweetest Cat Ever
Jen Boger was scrolling through shelter animal profiles in Northern Virginia when one cat stopped her cold. Mason looked rough, with scars, injuries, and the kind of face that made him seem like a tough guy who had seen too much.
As the cat entry coordinator at the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, Boger knew he needed a chance fast. Mason had the look of an animal people might overlook, but his story was about to take a much softer turn.

From her experience, Boger knew that if they didn't act quickly, this cat might never get the chance at a normal life and a loving home. "Looking at Mason's photo and description, I knew he was the type of cat that would get passed over again and again by potential adopters and other rescues because he looked so scrappy, tough, and sick," Boger says.
Mason didn't take long to adapt to his new environment. He seemed quite happy to leave this tough-guy lifestyle behind.

Now, he either waits at the door for us or comes bounding over as soon as he hears us approach. He loves to be petted and will nudge your hand or arm if you stop for even a few seconds.
He doesn't have a mean bone in his grizzled old body. Just lots and lots of love to give.
It also echoes the moment a good Samaritan rescued a tabby cat freezing in the snow and fought to give him a chance.
That's when Mason started showing his softer side.

However, it is obvious that Mason had been alone for so long with no one to care for him. "We expected him to show up with some matted fur, dirty ears, fleas, and generally be just a bit disheveled," Boger says. "But, in reality, he was the saddest, sickest cat I'd ever seen."
Mason's ears were injured, and he had deep scars on both sides of his face. In addition, his fur was shabby, and he had numerous health issues, including dental problems and a ringworm infection.
He had clearly been through a lot before anyone stepped in.
Thanks to weeks of therapy and excellent care, Mason is healing and feeling better with each new day. "While Mason has had some health challenges, everything appears to be surmountable." "He has responded incredibly well to everything that's come at him so far."
And even though life hasn't been kind to Mason, he's still just a "sweet, gentle, little old teddy bear." Whoever gives him a home will gain a good and loyal friend.
If you'd like to help Mason's recovery, you can make a donation to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation.
Mason's comeback is the kind that sticks with you.
And if you think “stone-skinned” means no hope, see how a stranger saved that abandoned pup: the miraculous transformation after the pup was left behind.