Lahmia Mareeal Marano received a text message from a friend who works at a veterinary clinic, and when she opened it, she saw a photo of Maxx, a 16-year-old cat, looking back at her.

Despite the fact that Maxx was in wonderful health, his owner had walked in and requested that he be put to death, according to her acquaintance. They were working so hard to prevent that from happening by finding him a new home.

“I tried my hardest to find him a home and I almost did it, but they couldn’t take him in the end,” Marano told The Dodo. “On that Thursday, I was told that if Maxx didn’t find a home, then he would be put to sleep at the owner’s request. I just couldn’t let that happen, so I got in my car the next day and drove the hour and a half to get him.”

Marano hadn’t been planning on adopting another cat, but she felt a pull towards Maxx and knew she had to help him. Sometimes the best things in life aren’t planned.

Maxx was visibly distressed and talkative when Marano first saw him, but she believes he understood that she was there to help him. “He hit my head right away. I immediately realized he was intended to be mine.

Because of all that was happening, Maxx had been cranky and bewildered, but as soon as he saw his new mom, he instantly became more composed. He appeared to be aware that she was there to take him home, and she did just that.

When Maxx was first brought to the vet’s office, his previous owner had a laundry list of complaints about him, but ever since Marano brought him home, he’s been the perfect addition to her family.

He had no problems adjusting to his new surroundings, and his favorite thing to do is to follow his new mom around and remind her how much he loves her.

Maxx adapted well to the group and immediately discovered his favorite spot: the sink, said to Marano. He talks a lot, and we occasionally have lengthy chats. I believe he is aware of his safety with me. He follows me about and watches over me when I take a shower, just like he did on the day I first brought him home.

When Marano first got that text from her friend, she had no idea it would end up with her adopting a 16-year-old cat, but now, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Maxx is such a blessing, and I believe he was sent to me,” Marano said.