A small-framed shelter recently welcomed an unusually heavy cat weighing approximately 10 kilograms (22 pounds). This was astonishing because cats with small frames and short legs rarely reach such a weight. Even animal welfare professionals with over a decade of experience found it hard to believe. But upon deeper investigation, it was discovered that Bertha's extreme obesity was caused by an emotional "knot" in her heart.
Meet Bertha: The 9.5-Kilogram Short-Legged Tabby
The Jefferson County Humane Society in the United States recently received Bertha, a short-legged tabby cat weighing a staggering 9.5 kilograms (about 21 pounds). When Bertha was brought to the shelter at the end of February this year, the staff were stunned by her size — it was simply unbelievable for a cat with such a small frame.
Brandi DeNoon-Damewood, the shelter's Development Manager, said Bertha was so heavy that even the shelter's cat scale couldn't accommodate her weight, and they had to use a dog scale instead. "I've been in this line of work for over ten years, and I've never seen such an obese small-framed cat — it was unbelievably fat," she recalled.
Health Challenges Beyond Obesity
Besides her obesity, Bertha faced numerous health issues including dental infections, open wounds, and difficulty moving. At times, she needed a sling to support her just to move around. The veterinary team immediately designed a weight loss plan combined with wound care and daily exercise, hoping to gradually restore her health.
The Root Cause: An Emotional "Knot" Behind the Weight
Bertha's previous owner surrendered her to the shelter due to the overwhelming medical expenses. After careful observation, shelter staff identified that one of the main reasons behind Bertha's abnormal obesity was an emotional "knot" caused by dental pain.
Because of her toothaches, Bertha could only eat canned and soft food. Additionally, she was once a stray cat who endured long periods of hunger on the streets. This experience led to a strong food dependency and a habit of eating until she was painfully full to feel secure.
DeNoon-Damewood explained, "Bertha's mouth was full of loose and broken rotten teeth. Many cats in this condition stop eating because it's too painful, but Bertha was different. Her dependence on food was so strong that even though eating caused her extreme pain, she would endure it to keep eating. For her, eating was the happiest moment in her life, bar none."
Turning Point: Dental Treatment and Behavioral Changes
Due to the severity of her dental problems, the veterinary team had to treat Bertha's oral issues by extracting the rotten teeth. After the dental treatment, Bertha's personality began to change.
Initially, she was fearful, inactive, and kept her head down in silence. But as her weight gradually decreased, she became very vocal, meowing to get attention whenever she wanted to be petted. She grew more confident and affectionate towards humans.
A New Beginning
Bertha successfully completed her weight loss program and now weighs a healthy 5 kilograms (about 11 pounds). Recently, she was adopted by a new owner who showers her with love and has promised to continue supporting her on her journey to health, helping her find joy beyond food.
Community Reactions
Many netizens were deeply moved by Bertha's story. Comments included:
"I never realized fat cats could have emotional knots. Seeing her open up truly touched my heart."
"Losing weight is never easy, but having someone by your side makes all the difference."
"I want to adopt a cat that talks and cuddles like Bertha too!"
Bertha's story is a heartwarming reminder that behind every animal's behavior is a story of struggle and hope — and with love and care, healing is always possible.
