At 15 years old, this vibrant orange tabby cat proves that senior pets are still brimming with life and overflowing with affection to share.
Wilbur is just like a typical grandpa.
This older cat enjoys wearing sweaters and bowties, going for slow walks, and sleeping in the daytime. (And really, what name sounds more like a grandpa than Wilbur?)
He also likes hanging out with his “grandkids” — the young kittens that he and his caregiver, Vanessa, take care of in their home.
Since Vanessa adopted him, Wilbur and she have helped over 100 kittens and cats.
These are more than 100 animals that might not have survived without volunteers like Vanessa who provide them with the extra care they need.
Read more: How Do Indoor Cats Get Fleas?
Watching Wilbur leap onto high shelves and dash around the living room, you might think he’s more like 15 weeks old than 15 years.
But he almost missed out on this second chance to be playful like a kitten.
Read more: How Do Indoor Cats Get Fleas?
Meeting Wilbur
Wilbur arrived at the Best Friends Lifesaving Center in Salt Lake City from a nearby shelter.
He was a charming orange tabby with a crooked smile that brightened the room…
…But underneath, he was dealing with a lot.
The vet found out Wilbur had serious dental problems, a heart murmur, and asthma so bad he needed a daily inhaler for life.
Despite feeling terrible, Wilbur was still very loving.
Even with a medical cone on, he would knead with his paws and roll over for belly rubs from the vet staff.
Wilbur needed a cozy place to recover, and experienced foster volunteer Vanessa decided to take him in.
Read more: Why Do Cats Bite Their Nails? What Is Actually Behind This Habit?
As Wilbur got better, his real character began to show.
Vanessa noticed how chatty Wilbur was.
He always replied with a knowing meow when called by name and enjoyed talking to the neighbors through the window.
He was also very playful and a little naughty. (Remember: Blinds are not for climbing.)
It didn’t take long to see that what was supposed to be temporary would be permanent. How could Vanessa not adopt Wilbur? He already felt like he was home.
Read more: Catnip: Harmless Fun Or Kitty Drug? Find Out Here!
Foster Kitten Class In Session
After adopting Wilbur, Vanessa kept up her volunteer work by fostering kittens.
When she first introduced him to a litter of kittens, she was thrilled to find out that Wilbur loved it too.
He didn’t just put up with the kittens; he took to them and became their teacher.
Having been a cat for 15 years, Professor Wilbur was a natural at mentoring the young kittens. His classes included Biscuit-Making 101, Intro to Litter Box, and The Art of Play.
He also took care of them by cleaning them, ensuring their ears were spotless and their coats were pristine. He gave them love and kept them disciplined.
The kittens loved following him around and paid attention to every meow he made.
Once the training is done, Wilbur’s young students are prepared to move to their own homes.
The kittens might not remember, but the lessons Wilbur taught them will stick with them forever.
Read more: The Real Reason Cats Hate Water And How Some Learn To Love It
