Janine Yarrell's beloved cat, Bubba, was missing for five years (Image: Jam Press)

Woman shocked as lost cat returns five years later and looks unrecognisable

by · Daily Record

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Losing a pet is heartbreaking – especially if you don't know whether you'll ever see them again.

Thankfully though, there is some hope when furry friends go missing. And that was definitely the case for Janine Yarrell, who lost her cat five years ago.

The 44-year-old was devastated when her seven-year-old moggy called Bubba disappeared without a trace. She launched a social media appeal, which wasn't successful.

So when Bubba returned home aged 12, looking extremely different, it's safe to say she was very surprised. It's believed she was living on the streets as a stray in their hometown of Ashford, Kent, since 2019.

Bubba looked completely different when they returned home (Image: Jam Press)

Bubba was spotted hiding under a car down the road from where Janine and her partner Rob live on Tuesday (November 12). A local in the town had posted a photograph of the cat to Facebook, which is when Janine found Bubba.

The delighted pet owner gushed: "I honestly didn't think I'd see her again. As she’s 12 now and used to the creature comforts of being at home.

"So I couldn’t believe my eyes when her photo was posted on Facebook. We checked her microchip details and now she’s finally back home.

"Her fur is matted and I’ll get her checked up by a vet, but she’s in relatively good shape considering she’s been living on the streets for five years."

"Let this be a strong message to all owners to check their pets’ microchip details are up to date. And above all never, ever give up hope. I’d like to thank everyone who shared her photos across social media."

The cat was found under a car, not far from Janine's home (Image: Jam Press)

Want to read more heartwarming stories about pets? Don't go anywhere, as we've got you covered.

Earlier this month, a dog gave birth to adorable green puppy. It lead to the owner coming up with a very appropriate name for the pooch.

Alternatively, you can read about a Scottish woman who splurged £1,000 taking her pampered dog on an Amsterdam holiday.

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