Smurf, an 8-week-old kitten, is the Internet’s latest animal inspiration.
At just 1.75 pounds, the tiny cat was found in a box on the side of the road running a temperature of 105. Smurf, who was brought to the San Jose Animal Care Center and taken to the Nine Lives Foundation in Redwood City, California to recover, had been dyed purple and showed apparent signs of abuse in the form of bite wounds and gashes.
"I believe that, for someone's amusement, this kitten was used as a chew toy for their dog,” Dr. Monica Rudiger of the Nine Lives Foundation told ABC News.
Though Smurf has experienced an extremely difficult few weeks, he’s not letting his journey discourage him. It's clear that this small kitten has a big personality, which he has used to befriend Wanda, a blind kitten that also resides at the shelter.
The resilient felines have developed a touching bond, which includes giving each other body massages and baths. In fact, the foundation shared that Wanda has even taken on a purple hue from snuggling with Smurf. Talk about a purr-fect pair!
A good Sunday morning to everyone! SMURF is bright eyed today & eating like a champ! SMURF and his blind roommate WANDA thank you for all of the baby food! Please keep it coming...SMURF and WANDA have become inseparable! SMURF seen here giving WANDA her daily massage. Listen closely for the purring...it will warm your heart ! Posted by Nine Lives Foundation on Sunday, January 3, 2016
While Rudiger appreciates that Smurf’s tale of survival going is going viral, she shared with CNN, “...I hope the message is long-lasting that animal cruelty is real and this is just one guy who's experienced it.”