A two-year-old, 10.5kg cat has found a new home after captivating the internet for its plus-sized appeal.
BeeJay attracted widespread attention earlier this month after the Morris Animal Refuge in Philadelphia shared photos of the tubby tabby on Twitter in a bid to get him adopted.
An online description about BeeJay read: “OMG, big boi Mr. B is a CHONK. He's a chonk of a chonk. He redefines the term."
While staff at the shelter described him as “big-boned”, it was also acknowledged that the moggy may have enjoyed more than his share of treats.
Due to his substantial heft, BeeJay’s pedigree was questioned, with some admirers on social media noting that he resembled a bob cat. On average, these wildcats weigh the same amount as BeeJay.
The shelter received more than 3,000 applications to adopt the hefty kitty, with offers including the Philadelphia Police Department, who offered him a place in the team in the event he failed to attract any interest.
“Um, if he doesn't get adopted (highly unlikely) he's welcome to join our K9 Unit as its first Feline (he IS a cat, right?!) member, [sic]” the department tweeted.
A veterinary examination revealed that the forlorn-looking feline had “underlying health and behavioural issues”, resulting in the shelter matching him with a foster family who have specialist experience in raising cats with additional needs.
According to a report, staff at the shelter are hopeful that BeeJay will settle and that his foster home will end up being his "forever home".
Fans of the oversized kitty can rest easy, however: staff at the shelter have assured them that regular updates on BeeJay’s progress will be shared via its social media platform.
BeeJay’s legacy will also live on sartorially – a number of T-shirts emblazoned with his face and the word “chonk” have been created to raise funds for the animal shelter.
