Meet Big Boy — and yes, that's exactly what he is. A stunning, all-gray, three-year-old gentleman with a heart just as big as his name. Not long ago, Big Boy showed up in a community cat colony... and it quickly became clear he didn't belong there. Other cats targeted him, leaving him with a painful abscess. The stress made him sick. He caught a cold. He was struggling. A kind caregiver scooped him up — because Big Boy was friendly right away — and took him to a shelter, even offering to help cover his care and placement. He was neutered and medically checked. But when the shelter reported litter box concerns, he was sent back. Back to the colony. Back to getting beaten up. Back to getting sick. This sweet boy was trying so hard to survive in a place that was never meant for him. Along the way, it was discovered that Big Boy is FIV+ — and suddenly, doors started closing. One shelter said no. Another indicated he likely wouldn't make it out alive. But his caregiver refused to believe FIV was a death sentence — because it isn't. She shared his story online, and one of our board members saw it and said, “Can we help? I'll sponsor him.” And just like that, Big Boy found his way to FieldHaven. From the moment he arrived, he proved what we already suspected. He's amazing. Incredibly sweet and social. A total people cat. No litter box issues. Big Boy is just a loving boy who wanted safety. Today, Big Boy is safe, thriving, and finally getting the chance he deserves. Big Boy is FIV+ — and that's okay. FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) is not a life-ending diagnosis. Cats with FIV can live long, happy, healthy lives — often with no symptoms at all. It is not easily transmitted, and FIV+ cats can safely live with FIV-negative cats in stable, indoor homes. All they need is routine veterinary care and love — something Big Boy has clearly been waiting for. Recently, Big Boy was also diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). While that can sound scary, many cats live comfortably for years with proper management. For Big Boy, that simply means a special kidney-support diet, a larger litter box, a big water bowl or fountain to encourage hydration, and routine monitoring. Most importantly — it has not changed who he is. He is still affectionate. Still social. Still leaning in for pets. Still looking at every person like they might be his person. We're happy to answer questions in person about CKD and what his care plan looks like. With consistency and love, cats with CKD can maintain an excellent quality of life. Big Boy didn't give up. His caregiver didn't give up. And neither did we. Now all that's missing... is you. - Learn more about chronic kidney disease here: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951452 - Learn more about FIV here: https://www.humanesociety.org/news/fiv-positive-cats All cats and kittens have been spayed/neutered, have received age-appropriate vaccines and are microchipped.click here