We recently adopted a cat who was left behind at 8 years old. The shelter worker gave us a long spiel and was overall very concerned about the cat's well-being because he was barely eating and always hiding. They said it was like he was giving up. Being left behind at a shelter was very hard on him, and made him very difficult to adopt out.

After some time, he is adapting to his new home and with us and starting to come out of his shell. I think we made it over the hump, but the first few weeks were very stressful because we had to be very vigilant and make sure he was eating and drinking.

This can be absolutely devastating for some animals.

And yes, we have been following up with the shelter to show them the progress he has made. There is definitely a strong sense of relief in their responses, relieved that he is recovering.