“Lexi” overcoming health and behavioral issues

Every animal in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) deserves a loving home for the holidays, and every adoption is special. But sometimes animals have to overcome hurdles in order to find their perfect match, which was the case for Lexi, a nine-year-old cat who recently found her new home.

Lexi’s journey with ARL actually began in 2017.

Lexi was adopted and returned twice, both for the same concern: house-soiling.

There are numerous reasons as to why a cat would house-soil – it could be a serious underlying medical condition, age, or, in Lexi’s case, her house-soiling was ultimately a byproduct of anxiety.

Additionally, this past summer Lexi was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism — a common disease of older cats in which a benign tumor forms on the thyroid gland.  This tumor secrets excess thyroid hormone and can cause symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, behavioral changes, and a voracious appetite.

Aside from her medical concerns, Lexi is an incredibly affectionate, easy-going and gentle lap cat, but needed to find her perfect match.

As with any animal in the care of ARL, she underwent a thorough veterinary exam and diagnostics revealed the hyperthyroidism, which she is currently taking medication for. Additionally, through close observation, staff at ARL’s Brewster Animal Care and Adoption Center realized that Lexi’s house-soiling was likely due to stress and anxiety.

Lexi began a regimen of anti-anxiety medication, and with her medical and behavioral issues in check, she was ready to find her new home.

With Lexi’s loveable personality, it didn’t take long to find her the perfect forever home, and she is thriving in her new environment!

Double Your Impact for Animals in Need

The COVID-19 pandemic has created so much uncertainty and strained our limited resources—animals like Lexi need you now more than they have before.

Extraordinary need calls for extraordinary measures, so our Board, past Board members, Leadership Council, and President & CEO will MATCH gifts received now through midnight on 12/1, up to $155,000!

This is your chance to DOUBLE your impact for an animal in need and give them hope, comfort, and stability during a tumultuous time.