Shrek, a gentle and uniquely adorable cat, didn’t start his life as a pampered house pet. Found amidst a bustling feral cat colony, he was an outcast, bullied and battling for survival. This harsh environment left him malnourished, his small body bearing the scars of countless catfights. Adding to his struggles, Shrek suffered from entropion, a painful condition that caused his eyelids to turn inward, leaving his eyes goopy, bagged, and partially blind. He was truly a cat in need of a miracle.
Shrek looking directly at the camera with slightly goopy eyes, sitting outside.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek’s Rescue and Transformation at Whiskers N Wishes Sanctuary
Shrek’s fortunes changed when Emily Shields, the compassionate founder of Whiskers N Wishes Sanctuary in Marana, Arizona, stepped in. Recognizing that this gentle soul didn’t belong to the rough life of the colony, Emily welcomed him into her rescue. His distinctive appearance, reminiscent of the lovable ogre from the animated “Shrek” movies, inspired his fitting name.
Emily Shields shared the beginnings of her sanctuary and her encounter with Shrek: “I always wanted to run a cat rescue even when I was little, and bought land in Tucson during the pandemic to do just that. To date, we have had 377 adoptions in 3 years!” She further explained the urgent need for rescues like hers, especially during challenging times: “Whiskers N Wishes was established in November 2020… All the shelters were closed due to COVID-19, and people were desperate.”
Emily Shields holding Shrek cat, showcasing his small size and unique features.
Image credits: wishesrescue
Upon arrival at Whiskers N Wishes, Shrek received the care he desperately needed. He was immediately noticeable due to his condition. “Shrek looked really rough,” Emily recounted. “He wasn’t eating enough because of the other cats, and his eyes were pretty goopy and gross… He looked like a mess.” Beyond the visible issues, Shrek was also diagnosed as FIV positive, a common ailment among outdoor male cats.
Shrek cat looking directly at the camera with goopy eyes before surgery, highlighting the entropion.
Image credits: wishesrescue
The most pressing health concern was Shrek’s entropion. Emily described the painful condition: “entropion, which is where the eyelids grow inwards and the eyelashes are stabbing into the eyeballs themselves. It’s painful and obviously made it hard for him to see.” This condition required surgical intervention to correct and alleviate Shrek’s discomfort and vision impairment.
Close-up of Shrek cat's face showing his eyes with entropion before surgery.
Image credits: wishesrescue
A New Life: From Sanctuary to a Loving Home in the City
After undergoing successful surgeries to correct his entropion and address dental issues, Shrek began to heal remarkably quickly. The transformation was striking, revealing the beautiful blue eyes that had been hidden behind the painful condition. His gentle nature shone through, and it was clear that Shrek was ready for the next chapter in his life – a loving forever home.
Shrek cat after eye surgery, showing his bright blue eyes and improved appearance.
Image credits: wishesrescue
Shrek cat looking directly at the camera with clear blue eyes after surgery, showcasing the positive transformation.
Image credits: wishesrescue
In less than two months after his surgeries, Shrek found his perfect match. A couple from New York City fell in love with his unique charm and heartwarming story. They adopted Shrek, offering him a comfortable and loving home far from the harsh streets of Arizona. His new life began in the bustling city, a world away from his feral beginnings.
Shrek cat in a carrier, ready for his journey to New York City and his new home.
Image credits: wishesrescue
Emily happily shared the details of Shrek’s adoption: “Shrek was adopted by a wonderful couple in New York City, who run his various social media accounts. He is much loved and living an amazing life for a former Arizona street cat. His new dad flew to Phoenix, drove to Tucson, picked Shrek up, drove back, and flew back to New York all in one day to get Shrek home!” This incredible dedication highlights the love and commitment Shrek now receives.
Shrek cat looking out of a window in his new home in New York City.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek’s Happy Ever After and the Ongoing Mission of Whiskers N Wishes
Today, Shrek thrives as a cherished house cat. While his vision remains somewhat impaired, he can now fully experience the world around him, no longer limited by pain and discomfort. His journey is a testament to resilience, the power of compassion, and the life-changing work of animal rescues like Whiskers N Wishes Sanctuary.
Shrek cat relaxing comfortably on a bed in his home.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek cat playing with a toy in his home, showing his playful and happy demeanor.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek cat looking upwards, showcasing his improved vision and ability to see his surroundings.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Emily Shields and Whiskers N Wishes Sanctuary continue their vital work, providing refuge and care for countless cats in need, including senior, disabled, and FIV/FeLV positive felines. Their dedication relies heavily on community support. As Emily mentioned, “The biggest help we need is donations for expansions and vet bills – we ran up $43,000 in vet bills in 2023 because we take in senior, disabled, and Felv/Fiv cats – as well as food and litter.”
Shrek cat sitting upright and alert in his home, looking healthy and happy.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek cat lounging comfortably in his home, exemplifying his relaxed and happy life.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek cat looking content and peaceful, highlighting his transformation from feral cat to beloved pet.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek’s story is a heartwarming reminder that every animal deserves a chance at a happy and healthy life. Thanks to the kindness of strangers and the unwavering commitment of rescuers, even a feral “foe” can become an adorable house hero, bringing joy and love to his new family.
Shrek cat lying on his back, relaxed and happy in his home, concluding the story with a feel-good image.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
Shrek cat looking directly at the camera with a slightly derpy expression, emphasizing his unique and endearing look.
Image credits: shrek.in.the.city
