Meet Sweetpea, the astonishing 27-year-old feline who has surpassed the average lifespan for cats. Born in 1995, Sweetpea is equivalent to a remarkable 124 years in cat years. Despite not holding the record for the oldest cat on record, her age is still quite impressive and uncommon. Let’s delve into Sweetpea’s story and discover the secret to her longevity. Connect with Sweetpea on Instagram, TikTok, and Amazon to follow her journey.
Bored Panda got in touch with Michelle, Sweetpea’s current owner, to delve deeper into her story. We were intrigued to find out how Sweetpea ended up in their care. Michelle revealed, “Sweetpea entered our lives when her original owner Vicci, who later became my unofficial stepmother, moved in with my dad back in 2005.”
After losing both of her owners at the respectable age of 22, there were discussions about putting Sweetpea down as cats typically live up to 12-18 years.
Image credits: meowynuggetsociety
Michelle shared some insights about Sweetpea’s previous owners. She mentioned that her stepmother and father, who were quite unique individuals themselves, adored Sweetpea and considered her to be very special. They believed that she had a unique understanding of English and could even mimic some words. Unfortunately, Sweetpea had lost her voice by the time Michelle adopted her, so she couldn’t witness this talent firsthand. Her previous owners were elderly and in poor health for a while before passing away within a short span of time when Sweetpea was 22 years old. Despite not being able to submit her for the World’s Oldest Living Cat record due to a lack of documentation, Michelle is thrilled to share Sweetpea’s remarkable story with the world.
Credit for the image goes to meowynuggetsociety.
Photo courtesy: meowynuggetsociety
Yet, her adoptive family had other plans, and now she resides with two other felines who have a ten-year age gap between them.
With Sweetpea joining Michelle’s family, Tutzi also came along for the ride as a new addition. Despite initial concerns about how her existing cat, Fumar, would react to two newcomers, it turns out that Tutzi and Sweetpea have a special bond from their past. After their original owners passed away, Michelle adopted both cats, bringing them into their home alongside Fumar.
The adjustment period was not without its challenges, especially since both Tutzi and Sweetpea had ringworm. To prevent the spread of the infection, the cats had to be kept separated until they recovered. Fumar had a tough time adapting to the new feline additions, particularly with Sweetpea’s assertive personality. However, over time, they have learned to coexist peacefully.
Despite her quirks, like being a speedy eater who steals treats, Sweetpea has made an effort to befriend Fumar with gentle meows. Michelle, Fumar, Tutzi, and Sweetpea have found a way to navigate their blended family dynamic, with love and patience guiding the way.
Credit for the image goes to meowynuggetsociety, the rightful owner of the picture.
Photo by: meowynuggetsociety
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Sweetpea has resided in Missouri, Kentucky, and Illinois over the course of her life.
With her eccentric owners, Sweetpea has definitely inherited some of their quirky qualities. “Sweetpea is a true character, living up to her name. She’s the sweetest of Peas, as we like to call her. Despite her age, she’s resilient and adaptable. Not much seems to faze her. She’s a cheerful and feisty cat, always ready to take on the world. Lately, she’s been a bit forgetful, but she still dashes to her food bowl at mealtime,” Michelle revealed.
Photo courtesy of meowynuggetsociety
Despite being exposed to secondhand smoke for years, having a less-than-ideal diet, and roaming both indoors and outdoors, she surpassed all predictions about her longevity.
Since Sweetpea is an older cat, we’ve been thinking about the special care she needs to stay healthy and happy at her age. Michelle shared that Sweetpea takes prescription medications, needs subcutaneous fluids, eats easily digestible food, and sees the vet regularly. With her advanced age, she has some urinary and fecal incontinence issues. Instead of diapers, they use puppy training pads to protect the floors and clean up a lot. Sweetpea also needs daily grooming and cleaning with wipes due to her limitations from arthritis and mobility problems. They have adjusted their home to meet her needs so she can be as comfortable as possible. If you’d like to contribute to her care, you can donate at their linktr.ee/meowynuggs. Michelle also mentioned that senior cats like Sweetpea are amazing, and now that it’s summer in Chicago, Sweetpea is enjoying some outdoor time with her family.
Photo courtesy: Meowynuggetsociety
Sweetpea was taken in by the Meowy Nugget Society where she was found to be suffering from various ailments, including arthritis, seizures, ringworm, and parasites.
Photo courtesy of meowynuggetsociety
Thankfully, she received the necessary treatment and returned to a state of good health.
Credit for the image goes to meowynuggetsociety.
Sweetpea has defied all expectations and surprised everyone by surpassing the life expectancy given to her.
Credit for the image goes to meowynuggetsociety.
Photo credit: meowynuggetsociety
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