When Mike Wilson and Megan Hanneman set out to adopt a kitten at the Humane Society of West Michigan, they never expected to encounter a 33-pound cat named Bronson. Yet, this oversized feline captured their hearts, and they couldn’t resist making him a part of their family. Despite Bronson’s striking size, Mike and Megan found him utterly charming, like a giant, lovable stuffed animal.
Mike and Megan’s journey to adopting Bronson was filled with anticipation and a bit of uncertainty. While waiting in line for their turn to meet Bronson, they had to leave for work, missing their chance to talk to the shelter staff. However, they couldn’t stop talking about Bronson, and their regret grew as the day went on. Their fear that someone else might adopt him prompted them to rush back to the shelter the next day. To their immense relief, Bronson was still available, and they wasted no time in bringing him into their home.
Bronson’s story took a poignant turn as he ended up at the humane society after his elderly owner passed away. He had gained an excessive amount of weight and was affectionately known as “Fat Kat” by his previous owner. The shelter staff decided to rename him Bronson, but this change in name didn’t diminish their determination to address his obesity. Despite living with other pets, Bronson tended to be a solitary cat, and it remained a mystery how he had become so overweight at such a young age. Shelter workers suspected that overfeeding or table scraps might have contributed to his condition.
During the adoption interview, Mike and Megan were informed about the potential health risks associated with Bronson’s size. They would need to help him lose weight gradually through diet and exercise to prevent serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Bronson’s large frame also made it challenging for him to groom himself, requiring daily brushing to maintain his cleanliness. Despite these considerations, the couple was deeply moved by Bronson’s affectionate nature when they met him in person, and they simply couldn’t resist bringing him into their lives, oily fur and all.
Mike Wilson was struck by the sight of Bronson, a disheveled cat with dandruff in his fur. This condition was a result of his inability to groom himself due to his size. Mike’s compassion and desire to provide care led to the heartwarming journey of Bronson from a shelter to feline royalty in their loving home.
