Condolences have been pouring in for a remarkable stray cat named Maximus, who passed away a few months after an appeal was launched to gather funds for his treatment. The Stray Cat Rescue Team West Midlands (SCRT) had saved the feline in November after he had lived on the streets for most of his life. The charity shared pictures of Maximus looking very unwell, with matted fur and teary eyes. When the team found him in Great Barr, Sandwell, Maximus was on the brink of death.
Lucy Strickland, the founder of Stray Cat Rescue Team West Midlands, is mourning the loss of Maximus, a stray cat who was rescued from the streets just a few months ago. Maximus was diagnosed with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), which is equivalent to HIV in cats, and his claws were so long that they were embedded in his paws, making it difficult for him to walk. His story touched thousands around the world, and a campaign was launched to raise £10,000 for his vet bills. Despite receiving multiple treatments, including AZT, normally used to treat HIV in humans, Maximus developed breathing problems and passed away on Friday night.
In November, SCRT came to the aid of Maximus, who had been roaming the streets for most of his life.
A fundraising initiative was initiated to cover the veterinary expenses of a beloved feline, which captured the hearts of supporters worldwide and generated £10,000 in donations. Lucy Strickland, the founder of SCRT, expressed her admiration for Maximus on social media, stating that he was the most amusing, resilient, and exceptional cat to have ever existed. Every possible treatment was administered to Maximus, and everyone involved put up a valiant fight to save him. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, Maximus succumbed to his illness.
When discovered in Great Barr, Sandwell, the cat’s fur was tangled and his eyes were leaking fluid.
Lucy, who took in Maximus the cat, affectionately referred to him as their “special little soldier.” She also mentioned that they called him “Mr Nosey” because of his curious nature. In her post, she urged others to look out for stray cats on the streets and not walk by them, assuming someone else will help. She asked readers to think of Maximus and his charming and loving personality and to consider helping to save a life. The post has received over 4,700 comments from supporters who have followed Maximus since he was taken in by SCRT. Folks expressed their sadness over his passing but were grateful that his last months were filled with love and kindness. Many people thanked Lucy and her team for providing the lovely cat with happiness in his final days.
After Maximus passed away on Friday, there has been an outpouring of condolences from fans all over the world.