Russian Couple Adopt Baby Puma With Health Problems And Spoils It Like Any Other Cat

Mar 11, 2019 by apost team

If you've ever known a cat owner, you know that they don't just see their cats as being their pets.

They see them as being an object of absolute affection. Their furry friends are to be doted upon with absolute awe and devotion.

However, one couple in Russia took things a step further, rescuing a young puma and treating them just like any other house cat.

According to the Inside Edition, Aleksandr and Mariya Dmitriev, house a puma cub by the name of Messi. Messi weighs in at an impressive 90 pounds. During a visit to the Saransk Zoo, they got to know him and realized that he would have to come into their home.

It has been a bit of a difficult road for Messi. He was born in a litter of three. Only a few months after his birth, he started having some health troubles. Though he's at a healthy weight now, Messi was severely underweight early on. In order for him to have a chance at life, he needed to be taken care of by people who were willing and able to attend to a very special creature.

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The idea of someone raising a puma might seem absurd and dangerous. Aleksandr and Mariya had to consider this decision very carefully. However, they soon decided that they had no choice but to bring Messi into their home. Once the papers were signed, they could begin the process of giving the eight-month-old Messi a new life.

The Dmitrievs' hallway was adjusted so that Messi would have space for roaming around. He was also given his own special leash and other gear so he could be taken on walks. 

On the internet, Messi has become a big hit. Hundreds of thousands of fans keep up with him on Instagram. Though the Dmitriev admits there are risks to hosting wildcats like Messi, the fact that he's never lived outside of the zoo meant that he wouldn't be a significant risk.

A pet like Messi is more than an animal. He's clearly brought all kinds of joy to his family. When you look at photos and videos of him, it's hard to not be touched.

What do you think of Messi's story? Would you ever adopt a puma? Be sure to show this to anyone you know who loves animals.