Earlier this year in the United Arab Emirates, an orange stray cat was spotted wandering alone outside a mall. Thankfully, a local cat rescuer was able to gain his trust and bring him to safety.
The cat, named Merlino, began a journey toward a loving forever home — but his path to happiness included some unexpected acts of care along the way.
Merlino started visiting Modern Vet, a veterinary clinic in Dubai, to ensure he was healthy and well-cared for. It wasn’t long before he charmed everyone at the clinic.
“He’s a lovely kitty,” a clinic spokesperson told The Dodo. “While he was staying here, he was friendly and always wanted affection or to play.”
To keep him entertained, the staff gifted Merlino a plush toy — which quickly became his favorite companion. One day, after an especially energetic play session, the unthinkable happened: the toy was ripped.
But the team knew just how to respond.
“Our nurse, Kate, stitched it up, and we put a little scrub cat on [Merlino]. He wanted to watch, too,” the spokesperson said, describing the “emergency surgery” on the beloved toy.
With his toy repaired, Merlino returned to his usual routine of play and affection. But his real-life adventure was only just beginning.
Shortly afterward, his rescuer found him a forever home with a family in Italy.
Though Merlino now lives many miles away, enjoying life with his new family, the staff at Modern Vet still remember him fondly — and the toy they patched up is a testament to the little moments that make pet care so special.
“It’s so heartwarming to see him with his new family,” the spokesperson said. “He looks delighted with himself.”
