Tragically, some animals are abused but miraculously retain the ability to trust and be loved by people. Such was the case with a 1-year-old abandoned cat, later named Rooster.

In June, an eyewitness in Dorchester saw someone leave Rooster in a dumpster. When Boston Animal Control found the cat, they saw that he was badly injured, especially his right eye. Unfortunately, Rooster’s injuries were consistent with trauma and appeared to be intentional.

Boston Animal Control immediately brought Rooster to the MSPCA-Angell for medical evaluation. Radiographs revealed that Rooster had trauma to his jaw; staff initially thought he would need jaw surgery, but X-rays revealed that surgical intervention wasn’t required. Nonetheless, his jaw would always have some minor misalignment. However, the severe damage to his eye required immediate attention. They rushed him into emergency surgery, where MSPCA-Angell Boston Community Clinic veterinarian Dr. Wendy Huang removed his right eye.

The MSPCA-Angell social media team brought attention to Rooster and his injuries, resulting in donations to cover surgery and care. And since Rooster’s injuries were consistent with trauma, an animal cruelty investigation was launched.

Rooster recovered well and in late August, he was adopted by a woman who adores him for the sweet boy he is, and happily provides him with all the love and affection a cat deserves.