The Heartbreaking Story of Kroshik: Russia’s 38-Pound Cat and the Perils of Pet Obesity

In a tale that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking, Kroshik, a Maine Coon tabby nicknamed “Crumbs,” captured global attention with his staggering 38-pound frame.

Found in a hospital basement in Perm, Russia, this feline’s struggle with obesity ended tragically on October 26, 2024, when he passed away due to health complications.

His story, however, continues to resonate, shedding light on the dangers of pet obesity and the importance of responsible pet care. Here’s a detailed look at Kroshik’s journey, broken down into key subtopics.

The Discovery of Kroshik: A Cat in Crisis

Kroshik, whose name means “Crumbs” in Russian, was found in the basement of a Perm hospital, likely abandoned by his previous owners. Hospital staff, moved by compassion, fed him a steady diet of crackers, soup, and meat.

While their intentions were kind, this unchecked generosity led to a staggering weight gain. At 38 pounds—equivalent to an average 4-year-old child—Kroshik was more than double the healthy weight for a Maine Coon, which typically ranges from 15 to 18 pounds for an adult female.

His size wasn’t just shocking; it was debilitating. By the time animal refuge workers found him, Kroshik could no longer walk, his mobility crushed under the weight of his own body.

It’s a scene that’s hard to imagine: a cat, meant to be agile and playful, grounded by excess pounds. His discovery sparked immediate action, but it also raised questions about how such a situation could spiral so out of control.

The Health Toll of Feline Obesity

Kroshik’s case is a stark example of feline obesity, a condition that affects up to 60% of cats in the U.S. and likely similar numbers globally, according to Preventive Vet.

Obesity in cats isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a serious health crisis. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and heart disease are common risks, and Kroshik’s story adds a heartbreaking twist: hidden cancers.

When veterinarians at the Matroskin shelter in Perm attempted a routine ultrasound, they hit a wall—literally. Kroshik’s layers of fat were so thick that imaging was nearly impossible. This wasn’t just a barrier to diagnosis; it was a sign of how obesity can mask life-threatening conditions.

Post-mortem exams later revealed multiple cancerous tumors in his spleen and other organs, undetectable earlier due to his weight. It’s a grim reminder that those extra pounds can hide more than just a cat’s waistline.

Rescue and Rehabilitation Efforts

Once rescued, Kroshik was taken to the Matroskin shelter, where a dedicated team set out to save him. The plan was ambitious: a strict diet aiming for a gradual weight loss of 150 grams (about a third of a pound) per week, paired with innovative therapies like hydrotherapy and kinesiotherapy.

These methods—think water-based exercises and therapeutic movements—were designed to ease the strain on Kroshik’s joints while helping him move again.

Early progress was promising. Kroshik lost 2.2 pounds, a small but significant step. In a moment that went viral, he even tried to escape his enclosure, getting stuck in a shoe rack as his belly grazed the floor (Daily Mail).

It was a funny, hopeful glimpse of a cat fighting to reclaim his mobility. The shelter’s efforts, led by owner Galiana More, showed what’s possible when care and expertise come together.

A Tragic End: Kroshik’s Untimely Death

Despite the optimism, tragedy struck on October 26, 2024. Kroshik began choking at the diet centre, and within 30 minutes, he was placed in an oxygen chamber.

Despite the team’s swift response, his condition deteriorated, and resuscitation efforts failed. He passed away that Saturday night, leaving his caretakers and supporters devastated (Daily Mail).

The post-mortem findings were a gut punch. Kroshik’s obesity had hidden multiple cancerous tumors, including growths in his spleen and metastases elsewhere.

These tumors, combined with the choking incident, proved too much for his compromised body. His death wasn’t just a loss; it was a wake-up call about the hidden dangers of overfeeding and the need for early intervention.

The Bigger Picture: Pet Obesity as a Global Issue

Kroshik’s story isn’t just about one cat; it’s a reflection of a broader problem. In the U.S., the ASPCA notes that obesity is the most common nutritional disease in cats, with many owners unaware of their pet’s gradual weight gain.

A healthy cat should weigh 8-10 pounds, though Maine Coons can reach 18 pounds. Kroshik’s 38 pounds was a dangerous extreme, but even smaller excesses can harm a cat’s health.

The consequences are serious: shorter lifespans, chronic pain, and conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Worse, as Kroshik’s case shows, obesity can obscure other illnesses, making treatment harder.

It’s a problem that’s often fueled by love—owners equate treats with affection—but the results can be devastating. A Cornell University study found that cats on controlled diets not only lost weight but also became more affectionate, proving that health and love go hand in hand.

Lessons for Pet Owners: Love Without Calories

Kroshik’s story is a cautionary tale for pet owners everywhere. It’s easy to give in to those pleading eyes or slip an extra treat, but overfeeding can turn love into harm.

Cats need 24-35 calories per 500 grams of body weight daily, far less than what Kroshik was getting from his hospital buffet (Cats Protection). Simple changes, like measuring food portions, using puzzle feeders, or encouraging play with toys that mimic hunting, can keep cats fit.

Regular vet visits are also crucial. They can catch weight issues early and screen for hidden problems. Owners should check if they can feel their cat’s ribs or see a defined waistline—signs of a healthy weight. If not, it’s time for a chat with the vet. Kroshik’s story shows what’s at stake when we let love outweigh logic.

Kroshik’s Legacy: A Call to Action

Though Kroshik’s life ended too soon, his story has sparked a global conversation. From viral videos of his escape attempt (Bored Panda) to news reports (The Independent), he’s become a symbol of the fight against pet obesity.

Shelters like Matroskin are leading the charge, showing how dedication can make a difference, even if the outcome isn’t always perfect.

Kroshik’s legacy is a call to action: prioritize your pet’s health. Say no to extra treats, yes to playtime, and always to vet care. His brief time in the spotlight reminds us that every cat deserves a chance to thrive, not just survive. It’s a bittersweet lesson, but one that could save countless furry lives.

Details	Information
Name and Meaning	Kroshik, Russian for ‘Crumbs’
Initial Weight	38 pounds
Rescue Location	Basement of a hospital in Perm, Russia
Diet Before Rescue	Crackers, soup, and meat by hospital staff
Weight Loss Achieved	2.2 pounds
Health Issues	Unable to walk due to obesity; multiple tumors in spleen and other organs
Death Details	Died October 26, 2024, after choking; resuscitation failed
Cause of Death	Related to undetected cancerous tumors, exact cause pending
Target Healthy Weight	10 pounds