Jerry The Cat Becomes Global Sensation After Being Abandoned By Owner For Being ‘Too Affectionate’

Animals have been brought to the shelter for different types of reasons, but being "too affectionate" is a new one.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• April 13, 2024

Meet Jerry, the charismatic 4-year-old feline whose loving nature turned his world upside down. It all began in Fort Lauderdale, where Jerry found himself in the care of a woman who couldn't handle his excessive affection.

Yes, you read that right—Jerry was tossed into the care of a shelter for being ‘annoyingly affectionate.' But hold onto your whiskers, because this story takes a heartwarming turn.

The Humane Society of Broward County took to social media to share Jerry's plight, and it wasn’t long before the internet had a collective heartbreak. How could anyone resist a lovebug like Jerry? The post described him as a sweet cat who just wanted to show love and be close to his human—something that turned out to be his undoing.

Jerry instantly became a viral sensation as people were shocked that someone would let go of a pet for simply being too loving. The outrage quickly turned into action, with countless inquiries pouring in to adopt Jerry. 

The story didn't stop there. Inside Edition picked up on Jerry's viral fame, bringing even more attention to his plight. Suddenly, celebrities like Debbie Gibson, Beth Stern, and Kat Dennings were sharing his story, amplifying the message that pets like Jerry deserve all the love in the world.

The outcome? The very next day, the shelter was swarming with prospective adopters eager to give Jerry the forever home he deserved. The first family to meet him fell instantly in love and decided to make him part of their fold.

But here's where it gets even better. Jerry's adoption led to a domino effect of generosity. His adoption fees were sponsored, and in return, his new family paid it forward by sponsoring the adoption of three bonded feline brothers, Porthos, Aramis, and Athos. Talk about a happy ending multiplied!

Jerry's story not only found him a loving home but also highlighted the importance of adopting from shelters. Thanks to his heartwarming journey, seventeen other cats found their forever homes in just one day. That's the power of a snuggly cat with a big heart!

Whiskers set to maximum charm! Jerry's on a mission to steal hearts

Wanted: One human who understands there's no such thing as too much love. Apply within.

The king of cuddles prepping for his next snuggle session

“We have animals come to the shelter for all types of reasons but “too affectionate” really isn’t one that I think we’ve ever heard,” said Cherie Wachter from Broward Humane.

When you're so adorable, even the stars can't help but shine a spotlight on you. Debbie Gibson, Beth Stern, and Kat Dennings—advocate for unlimited cuddles!

From 'too affectionate' to just perfect—Jerry's found his match

“Sweet Jerry has found a loving forever home where he can be as affectionate as he wants! Thanks to all of the shares on social media, Jerry’s video was seen by just the right person , and she ran to the shelter first thing this morning to adopt him! ” the Humane Society shared.

Meet the Three Papitos—ready to triple the love in their new home.

Behind every happy adoption, there's a caring human who believed in their furry friend.

“That cats are just flying outta here!” she said. “It’s a great problem, a lot of them are finding homes.”

“There are animals everywhere that needs homes, and if Jerry’s story is going to enlighten people and cause them to realize that there’s pets waiting for homes in their local shelter, at a rescue group, more power to Jerry,” she continued. There’s lots of Jerry’s all over the country waiting for a chance.”

That adorable face says it all – adopt me, and I'll be your purr-sonal sunshine on cloudy days

As Jerry settles into his new home, we can't help but smile at how his journey inspired others to open their hearts and homes to pets in need. After all, in a world where affection is scarce, Jerry reminds us that a little love goes a long way.

Of all the problems in the world, having a snuggle monster as a furry buddy is one many would gladly take! So, to all the potential pet parents out there, if you're seeking a lovebug like Jerry, your local shelter might have just the pet for you.

Jesse