For Grandpa Mason, on his 3rd gotchaversary

Three years ago today, we trapped a dying feral cat named Mason. With just a few months left to live, I brought him home to give him the comfort and dignity every living creature deserves after a life well lived.
What happened next blew us away.
Mason found a new purpose in life: being a foster grandpa to rescue kittens. For 1069 magical days, Grandpa Mason shaped dozens of young minds, passed down important grandpa secrets, demonstrated tremendous hunting prowess, taught manners, quashed impudence and created a multitude of fashion-forward kitten hairstyles.
On September 19, 2019, we had to say goodbye to Mason. He crossed the Bridge peacefully and painlessly, with great dignity, at home on his tiny sofa, surrounded by the Auracuda, the TinyTuxies and his kittens.
For 1069 days, we got to love this glorious ancient "lost cause" feral cat. We got to give him 1069 days surrounded by love, free from pain and smothered in slobbery kitten kisses.
Each of those days was a gift to us, and to him. Given his feral upbringing and his medical condition when he arrived, it would have been easy to write him off as a lost cause. I’m so grateful we didn’t.
Grandpa Mason showed the world that even if you’re old, sick, feral, broken or different… you have value. You have something to offer. You are worthy of compassion. You matter.
Thank you so much for loving him as much as we do. His story doesn't end here, as we still have so much work to do in his name. If you would like to help cats like Grandpa Mason get a chance to experience the love, comfort and joy they deserve, please support TNR efforts in your own neighborhoods.
Help others understand that underneath their tough, fierce feral exteriors, these remarkably misunderstood cats are capable of extraordinary love and worthy of compassion.
Become advocates for spaying, neutering and most of all... compassion.
Help us honor Mason’s memory by turning the global compassion deficit responsible for cat overpopulation into a global compassion surplus by telling their stories, giving them a voice, and helping change the narrative about feral cats.
MUSIC:
Elastic Heart (Sia) by Christina Grimmie
• "Elastic Heart" by Sia...
In the Arms of the Angels (Sarah McLaughlan) by Samantha Harvey
• Sarah McLachlan | Arms...
Classical Carnivale by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (creativecommons.org/licenses/...)
Artist: www.twinmusicom.org/

[@jillcnc]

Three years later and this can still reduce me to a sobbing pile of goo. He will never be forgotten.

[@kalikat6153]

Well it’s a year later and I’m crying again. 💔

[@celestabelleabethabelle7551]

Mason wanted to give the kittens the childhood he never had

[@christinebuckingham8369]

Demon Cat Gaming 22 💖

[@bigboyjeon4701]

There, nice going a hole... Ur Makin me cry with that comment.... 😢😭😭

[@sumalife212]

That seems very true

[@Shadow-bs1iu]

This does ask that exact question of his way of thinking

[@debbee5771]

Mason inspired me to adopt elderly rescue cats. My second elderly boy arrived 3 weeks ago at 16 and is enjoying his retirement here.

[@davidherman1803]

Thank you! May you experience as much joy as we all did from Mason

[@shariys1]

God bless you! 😻

[@denisecampbell6736]

Hope Shelly’s seen this. You are a wonderful Lady to do this and Bless you and the older furry Family Members. 😊

[@MelindadelosSantos]

God bless you! 💖

[@heidiaugusto9938]

All my cats have been rescues...adopt, don’t shop! Bless you Shelly for caring for Mason and sharing his story with everyone.

[@pamJ126]

I think of him often - Rest in peace Grandpa Mason.

[@sandrabradley6155]

Crying tears of sadness that Mason is gone and tears of joy that the last years of his life were probably the happiest of his whole life. He had a full belly, warmth, comfort and love yet still on his terms. He was the best and is very much missed 💕💕🐾🐾

[@cclaussen]

Sandra Bradley same here. ❤️😢

[@Eastendsunset]

Very well said - thank you for your compassionate words...

[@SSR00000]

Sandra Bradley - Same here. Could not have said it better. Hugs to Mason's family from Zambia, Africa.

[@ianmoseley9910]

Compared to his previous life he had 1000+ days of what must have seemed to him like utter bliss. So happy he had that

[@Brind-amour]

I couldn't stop the tears 💔 Thank you for saying those beautiful goodbye words....

[@terryhickman7929]

A towering hero in a little fur coat. Thank you for giving him his best possible last years.

[@williamstyers4264]

What an absolutely wonderful description of Mason. "A towering hero in a little fur coat." He was that indeed. Thank you for that thought.

[@terryhickman7929]

@@williamstyers4264 It's just the truth. Thank you for your loving heart.

[@functionoflightone]

Well said.

[@sunshinesky3114]

Mason spent his last years being loved, healthy, safe, fed, not like before. He was a nurturing Grandpa that loved the kittens like a Mama cat would love her her own. Such a wonderful loving Mason. ❤

[@ambermoon2326]

*Mason walks up to death* Mason: Was I a good Grandpa? Death: No . . . I heard you were the best

[@kelly-charmainemarieflanag1098]

@Amber Moon I just got finished getting my face back to a normal color from crying earlier! Lol, this comment is just perfect atm at least for me. I could picture Death giving him a long scratch in that sweet spot all cats have, and the two of them slowly dissolving from sight. Of course right before the last of their motes disapear, I hear Mason ask "So, Halloween IS coming up..." A small chuckle, almost unheard drifts from a few feet higher than the cat. "Plus, I haven't chewed anyone in so long! Besides who else is going to take mice as payment?..

[@Akhhmorn]

I cried when I read this

[@brendadevries6087]

Amber Moon 😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@mommamable2124]

He was and always will be the best Grandpa kitty the world will ever have

[@elizabethevenson6110]

death comes for everybody and hears all the best gossip, they're probably the best qualified to judge grandpa quality. (if neil gaiman's death came for him, i bet he let her have a quick scritch or two.)

[@knowbuddynose]

Mason’s was an incredible story. His sunset years were golden thanks to you.

[@barbarasmith6414]

He was the greatest Grandpa ever. I bet where ever he is, he's surrounded by furbabies that has pass over the rainbow bridge🙏🏻🐾💖

[@rjchavers9267]

Well said

[@diannamallar1155]

Grandpa Mason is curled up under a shade tree surrounded by kittens, and spinning tall tales of his life. Hanging around the outside fringes of the circle of kittens, are the teenage cats. They are too "cool" for the stories but are drawn in anyway.

[@elizabethevenson6110]

@@diannamallar1155 halfway, you listen to grandpa mason, k, bb? (my not-quite-a-kitten, lost too soon. i got to see her go from "wouldn't even come inside to Harley-volume chilled-out princess floof", though, and the only regret i have besides the short time was i never got to take a pic of her with a tiara on befitting her status.)

[@scottr939]

Mason's waddle while carrying a kitten into his yurt is the best thing ever! He will be forever in my heart. Thank you Shelly and everyone at TK for all that you do.

[@terryhickman7929]

I loved the little kitten literally following right in Mason's footsteps - so cute!

[@mickymickle2764]

Your comment and Terry's captured those best two moments, although they didn't surpass the others by much!

[@maxinezook3835]

I also love the Mason & Aura videos (their relationship was so precious) and the infamous video where then-tiny puffy Clover (Bill) confronted Mason 😍

[@joannebusby19]

He was saying to the little one, 'come on now, bedtime!''

[@toria9799]

He wanted company as he slept. Simply beautiful.

[@aaronbritt2025]

There's a reason the early Egyptians worshiped cats.

[@shadowmare87_77]

Just saying our entire species didn't stop basically worshipping them.

[@Starrytchi]

I’m the 100th like lol- And yes, there’s a reason. This is one of them. I’m glad people were punished for killing cats-

[@Dittour]

@Aaron Britt Yep, venomous snakes, rats and other pests

[@MT-iq6ji]

I love cats enough to leave them alone. A lot of so called cat lovers are actually animal abusers. They hoard and deliberately inbreed cats to have deformities then sell and exploit them on social media. Ancient Egyptians were pagans. They even practiced animal sacrifices as part of their pagan rituals. Those beliefs faded and were replaced by monotheistic religions. Today, the majority of the Egyptian population is Muslim. Breeding, selling and exploiting cats is forbidden (Haram) in Islam.

[@thecursed01]

@@MT-iq6ji they torture dogs instead and think cows have to be brutally killed and bleed to death to be halal and get offended enough so they get exemptions from animal cruelty laws in many non muslim countries. ancient egyptians hardly ever sacrificed cats. the often referred to "cat mummies" are often without an animal inside. so more an object of worship. back then, cats were seen as vital to civlilization, keeping rats/mice off from the grain storages not only to prevent loss, but also disease that way. so harming cats was, depending on the era, even treated as a crime.

[@richardbevill47]

" Not all Angel's have wings, some have whiskers." ❤

[@rollothecat2010]

That is beautiful. =❤=

[@Lovelove77788]

🙌💖💯🥰

[@Fnx9955]

Love that ❤❤❤

[@lavenderlilac8920]

Aaah, the wisdom of elders. Grampaw Mason also showed there was always room for one more in a snuggle bed, tiny couch, snugglepile, or anywhere at all. He truly was a "GRAND"paw!

[@brentkalmbacher9092]

He laid down his sword at last, surrounded by his little ones, smiled, blessed them, and looked to death, "Tis time to go, my job is done."

[@scottrackley4457]

why don't you just tear my heart out while you're at it

[@brentkalmbacher9092]

If I am chosen for Odin' s hall i am asking if pets like Mason are allowed. I don't want to go to any heaven where there are no pets.

[@veramae4098]

Shelley Roche, founder and manager of Tiny Kittens, wrote that she had whispered to Mason before he fell asleep, to "send them" any cats especially in need of help. Within two weeks a dying cat dropped to the sidewalk in front of the home of one of TK's most active volunteers. (He was saved.) There were quickly 2 more cat saves. Mason's on the job! (blinking tears) P.S. British Columbia, Canada, where TK lives and breathes and works and has its being, is a very expensive place to live. If anyone can send $5 or $10 (or a $million) please do.

[@jainra]

This kind of work is never done.

[@rogerlemans636]

Way to go emasculating me in front of my wife pal.

[@YvetteASMR]

It's mid day and I work in a retail office space and now I'm bawling my eyes out after watching this. Oh Mason. He can never be replaced.

[@jenniferfluharty9586]

Same! Just trying to keep it quiet!

[@thingswhatilike]

Stupid

[@janmots2829]

Same here... Im trying hard not to sob again... Oh I miss him terribly...

[@traceylamplugh7727]

You never know!!!!

[@collectorofcats294]

I agree with you 100%!!! I shouldn’t watch these videos when I’m at work...

[@ericstefko4852]

he was such a special little old man.

[@nhstitcher517]

Sweet Mason, you are dearly missed. You mattered, Rest in peace.

[@veryaries_Awndreea]

You were the best thing that ever happened to him. Thank you and thanks to all the supporters 🙏♥️🐱

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

rest well warrior, your battle is over.

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

Now I’m crying again!!!

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

Melanie Hale **hugs** we can cry together

[@elemental2503]

He is now a peaceful elder with kits telling their histories (also, warriors cats reference?)

[@damjan847]

You disgust me

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

GamingAndroid I don’t know you or why you are angry. We have literally done nothing to you. This place is for mourning. Why are you trolling? Please just leave.

[@amessman]

3:23 “taught them how to cat” *shows him climbing into an already full container of cats*

[@toradrow777]

It's the most important cat rule: If I fits, I sits.

[@kraigshall]

True.

[@BlueUncia]

@@toradrow777 And even if I don't fits, I still sits. Kittens make good pillows anyway.

[@kerryedavis]

I thought the little gray kitten imitating his walk, was closer to the mark.

[@madeliner1682]

@@BlueUncia you right haha

[@annkitty]

RIP Grandpa Mason. You will live forever in my heart. I will never forget you. Run free and be a kitten again. ❤💔💗

[@wennahaunted6243]

Wouldn't one life be enough 😭

[@Cliona76]

So sad to hear he passed away, RIP Mason

[@snowwolfsforlife6221]

Thinks guys

[@ticketyblue3080]

He loved the little ones so much. He got a second chance and found 3 years of happiness and care.

[@NoahSpurrier]

Old, broken, misunderstood, different: you still matter.

[@veramae4098]

Damn. If I were still teaching I'd get this printed as a poster and hang it up.

[@PADARM]

He is now in Heaviside Layer playing with Stanley. He was so happy in his last years thanks to Tiny Kittens. R.I.P Grandpa ❤️🌈

[@michiver]

Love Grandpa Mason and I think of him often.

[@pheenix42]

Cats being social creatures, he needed another cat to be around who didn't pose a threat to him. And, he ended up being the cat that showed kittens how to be a cat. Good on ya, old bean.

[@elizabethevenson6110]

i kind-of-know a cat behavior expert, and their opinion is "introducing kittens to older cats tends to be easier because yeah, usually too goofy to make territorial instincts kick in". (and sometimes you get something as adorable and important as "taught a whole bunch of kittens how to cat and gave himself a reason to keep going and a home to do that in".)

[@oddblues1090]

He's not the father we deserve, he's the father we need

[@damjan847]

Grandfather*

[@richardlee5412]

Batcat

[@aleksandarvil5718]

Grandpaw**

[@juliek2977]

@@aleksandarvil5718 too funny!

[@suemcnellis6107]

I wanted him to live forever 😢

[@nigelft]

We all did ...

[@GnosticAtheist]

Actually no, but that is a debate about mortality and nature. I guess if he didnt age I would agree with you, but that would be another reality.

[@debnebistinsky5743]

He was a special little man esp to those kittens.

[@christinebuckingham8369]

Øystein A. One can live forever within the hearts of those they have loved and those whose lives were made better by their memory.

[@GnosticAtheist]

@@christinebuckingham8369 In an abstract, sure. Consciousness as we know it seems to be derived from chemical processes and electrical activity in the brain, thus others remembering someone would not keep that consciousness in existence. Due to me not having died I can not confirm this, Ill haunt you with the answer at a later date.

[@dtrix10kc]

Daggone it. Now I'm crying like a baby after watching this. RIP Mason you beautiful soul. The Elysium Fields has a new angel. Run free buddy.

[@brentkalmbacher9092]

A cat like that sits on the feet of the All-Father, eyeing his ravens as if they are fast food and stalking the tails of his wolves with impunity. He teaches the Einhangar that all living brings can be warriors, and there for be given the right to be called, Sons of Odin.

[@TheOriginalMaxGForce]

I'm sorry to hear he's gone. I'm glad he was with you and not sick and alone outside. Every cat deserves a home.

[@PoisonRat02]

Grandpa Mason is one of the reasons why I got into fostering, TnR and helping out with animal shelters. I am thankful I found the videos because without him I wouldn't have found something that I love to do.

[@pekibuzz]

Wow, that is phantastic! 🥰 👍

[@elizabethevenson6110]

bast is extra-specially pleased with grandpa mason for that. ("not only did you help your colony help kittens get homes, you inspired other humans to work for that as well".) as a rescue mama, i am too.

[@abbyiswatching2046]

"How to Cat" indeed! Rest. Your fight is over. He died warm, safe and loved. Cross the bridge and run free, dear Mason. Nothing hurts anymore.

[@charlesscatola5488]

"Mason met these rescue kittens, and his heart melted." For almost three years, so did mine, and the hearts of countless other people. Now, our hearts cry, a combination of tears, not only of sadness, but tears of joy. Sadness for the fact that Mason is gone, and we will no longer get to witness that gentle old soul taking each litter of kittens under his wing (ok, paw) and teaching them the proper way to act, just like any wise grandpa would do. Possibly, in his mind, he knew that it was something he had to do as the elder statescat at TK. It was also something he wanted to do as it was his way of giving back, and saying thank you to TK for not only rescuing him, but allowing him to live a life that he deserved, even though he was terminally ill. He got that chance, and he made the most of it, for way longer than anyone could have possibly imagined. Our tears of joy come from the fact that thanks to TK, we were able to meet, get to know, appreciate and love Mason. Sadly, while his job here is complete, he continues on in spirit to be the best "Grandpa" that any kitty could have. Rest in Peace, Mason. You will always be loved, and never forgotten. Your spirit lives on in every kitten you touched. I, for one, will miss you.

[@denisecampbell6736]

Charles, that was beautifully said. Thank you.

[@GR-hy3tf]

Oohhh😥 so beautiful how you have said that. Life is so much more then we think. 🌸🌺🌸

[@johncollins7423]

You may count me in on that sentiment of missing Grandpa Mason too, Charles. The world is poorer today now that he's gone, but it is also richer for his having been in it. 😻

[@shinjuinoue6600]

Thank you for expressing all that I feel too❣️I believe that he received the power to live with his illness by the great unconditional love he got from kittens big and small who loved him no matter what 🌹

[@elizabethevenson6110]

excellent eulogy, worthy of the Grandpa Supreme himself

[@theminecraftace]

I salute to Grandpa Mason for being one of the best cats the internet has ever seen. He helped raise and teach the foster kittens his secrets, and he was basically the king of the house. Rest in peace Mason. You will be missed.

[@buddhistandcatholic]

Up there with Unsinkable Sam

[@wcox4]

I was watching this, and some lowlife unleashed the onion-cutting ninjas. RIP Grandpa Mason. May you watch over your kittens. I will always think of you.

[@addybishop308]

I think those are the same ninjas that attacked me. Someone keeps pouring water all over my face. I don’t need a tissue, I need a sponge.

[@johncollins7423]

@@addybishop308 Those ninjas got to me too, here in North Carolina.

[@Rutabaga64]

Well, I’m crying again. I miss the old man so much. But what an amazing legacy he left behind. Thank you so much to Shelly and everyone at TKHQ for giving him 1069 beautiful days and sharing him with the world. 🌹🌹🌹

[@herpderpy9445]

People really don’t appreciate senior animals like they should.

[@baruchben-david4196]

People don't appreciate senior humans like they should, either.

[@easterdm]

@@baruchben-david4196 yup

[@Lovelove77788]

They are so loving and sweet 🥰 I have rescued many senior animals and they are the best companions 🥰

[@HunterPeale]

@@Lovelove77788 there is something so very special about old cats....i can't find the words

[@Lovelove77788]

@@HunterPeale yes 💖 they are so sweet amd loving but all cats are loving and sweet🥰 best companions!

[@MyLast2Braincells84]

Seeing him go from a tough, scared feral to a protective, loveable foster dad was the most beautiful thing ever. Rest in peace Grandpa Mason ♥️

[@Andulvar]

Only hearing about his passing now, sorry for your loss.

[@Dead_Bot]

At least.. He had a happy life after..

[@phibbykaden]

Ditto that.

[@jenniferfluharty9586]

I found TK years ago due to a video of Mason shared by the dodo. He has always had a place in my heart. I cried when I heard he was in his final hours, and I cried again watching this. 💞 Mason, always. 💞 TK.

[@polarbearhero9803]

I was glad that they had him surrounded by kittens at the very end including the last two foster kittens he raised, his apprentice Aura & two of the tiny 3 week olds living downstairs with their moms. Shelly had announced when Dr. K was coming so chat waited, cried & watched the clock. I was crying when (on the live video cam) I saw one of the snugglers bring the two babies back in to their mom. I knew Mason was gone then. Shelly had stayed up with him his last night to make sure he wasn’t in pain. I know he took a lot of time to care for but Shelly loved him & Mason was such a very real help in the shelter with scared little kittens. I was amazed he lived so long yet for some reason I expected him to live forever. Rest In Peace.

[@RollnRye74]

Did he die on his own?

[@polarbearhero9803]

Roll n' Rye He was dying because his kidneys were no longer working. Ammonia was building up in his blood. To prevent more pain they euthanized him at home. In the video the previous night he was just lying there not moving. He will be missed.

[@RollnRye74]

@@polarbearhero9803 That was nice of them to do that. How old was he?

[@polarbearhero9803]

@@RollnRye74 He was feral so they have no definite age but close to 10.

[@RollnRye74]

@@polarbearhero9803 I wonder what makes feral cats get kidney disease. that happens often. is it from drinking polluted water/rain water?

[@JimsPal]

His happiness, joy, astounding health and longevity is because of you Shelly and your wonderful staff. Thank you for giving him the best years of his precious life.

[@angelita98gaby]

RIP Grandpa Mason 🙏🏼 Glad to have followed his story as he lived longer than his original prognosis. Rest easy, ol guy~ 💖

[@Jaggededge112]

I firmly believe that the kittens gave grandpa Mason a reason to keep going and he lived three more wonderful years with his foster babies. Mason you were a great cat and so special to everyone that saw you. RIP sweet boy, maybe you’re a kitten again and are playing forever with the other kittens.

[@laurabaumgartner3085]

R.I.P. Grandpa Mason. You brought love to countless kittens, teaching them valuable cat lessons that they needed to know. While I am crying over your passing I am so happy that your last days were full of peace and love. And that you no longer needed to fight for survival. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL WHO HAD YOU CROSS THEIR PATH.

[@Error-5478]

Hes like that old war scarred veteran who no one really likes, until you show him something he can love and then he just kinda reverts into this lovable and caring thing that no one can really resist.

[@Error-5478]

@Danish Wistara Sounds like its already been done.

[@Error-5478]

@Danish Wistara Never heard of it. But the idea just sounds like it's been beaten to death.

[@houndrysmagolyteofhope4661]

@@Error-5478 honestly i seen comedies, but not a serious one. I would really enjoy one like that.

[@MortisLegio]

So he's Clint Eastwood's character in Gran Torino?

[@jigglypuff52]

So he's like Clint Eastwood in Gran Torino?

[@ashleyalexwallace]

Love you so much Grandpa Mason! Thank you TK crew and Shelly for saving this baby and giving him the best of the golden days.😻

[@joyfullmink]

Rest in peace, beautiful Grandpa Mason ❤️🌈

[@xXRaocnumDudeXx]

"We got to love him for 1069 glorious days" Nice... *Tear drops* Very... nice...

[@Plantedaphid07]

mildlymenacingmeem the numbers are too small......

[@MagnCheese]

as the 69th like, nice....

[@kimjongun4343]

**crying in pain** V- -very..*sobbing*..n-nice

[@Ttavoc]

@@Plantedaphid07 They are always to small :(

[@nathanwilliams2152]

Maybe I'm wrong...but just maybe, the love he was shown by Shelly, those kittens, and the happiness he got from them, extended his life somewhat? For him to have lived another 3 years with his prognosis was a great story.

[@terrydeason1689]

Miss him so much 😿💔 He's taking care of babies at the Bridge now. Oh, Grandpa, you are so loved and missed ❤

[@Evija3000]

All the tiny kittens who didn't make it in this world.

[@nasreen7043]

Mason my beautiful little boy .. 💋💋💋💋 I smiled as I watched the video and it made my heart glow and then it came to the part that he has left this world. Left me in tears and heartbroken but so grateful for all that you did for him. God bless his little soul and God bless all of you who loved and cared for him, never giving up. Thank you for giving him the love he never knew but craved all his life. Thank you for the beautiful memories 🌺

[@Tonyblack261]

His impact spread right around the world. I was recently in a model making hangout on KZbin and one of the guys there recognised Mason in my avatar. Turns out he had been following TK since Chloe. Grandpa, you taught us all so very much in the short time we knew you. You tuaught hoomins as well as kittens and I will forever think of you as Professor Mason.

[@Joe_Cool48]

He won his long fought war not when he entered the home, but when the kittens entered his heart. He felt capable of standing down and nurtured kittens so they wouldn’t have to endure what he did. Thank you Grandpa Mason for your graceful message

[@chinasmom3610]

Beautiful memorial for Mason. Thank you!

[@BobGymlan]

Mason can rest now, he earned it more than most.

[@lax4359]

He definitely earned it more than most humans in this world can do like for starters people abandoning animals when they get old people like that make me sick 😣

[@xanshen9011]

YOO I LOVE YOUR VIDS

[@jacesazzer]

Goodbye Grampa Mason. You've made such an impact on so many lives and helped change how so many people view feral cats around the world. I love you and will miss you. RIP

[@Fluttershiez]

RIP, Mason. You made an impact on everyones lives, including mine, and the kittens you helped raised. I'll miss you.

[@lisapawlowski1691]

Miss u Grandpa Mason rest easy sweet Angel 🌈❤🐾😢🙏

[@LynKora]

He was a good cat. I'm happy his twilight was soaked in love. He deserved it.

[@RichO1701e]

I'm gunna cry with this one... RIP Mason. 😿😿😿 Edit: Told ya, a 36yr old, British guy with a not so stiff upper lip! There's blubbering, snot and tears now. Mason is my spirit animal

[@Fnx9955]

❤❤same here 😭😭😭🌈❤️

[@rainerainegoaway6887]

Oh Mason you sweet sweet boy!!! I miss you so much!!! You made such a HUGE impact on this world!!! And even though you are now in heaven i still think about you every single day!! And I know you are now happy and free of pain!! Looking after all the kittens in heaven!! I love you sweet boy!!! RIP Mason!!! You are SO missed!!! And your life MATTERED!!!

[@ilovewallacebuthategromit]

His story is one of the most touching stories out there. He spent so long in brutal, thankless conditions, and after fighting so long to survive he finally got the love and comfort he deserved in the last stretch of his life. Such an amazing, sweet boy. Lots of tears and kisses for him.

[@aparioss1072]

Mason: Remember kids Kittens: No prisoner Mason: My job here is done

[@bettyarel8941]

When I read about Mason I cried There will never be another cat like him. 💔😫😢💔

[@peridot988]

Mason to Shelly: Well done, thou good and faithful servant.

[@christinebuckingham8369]

peridot 💜🙏💜

[@sarabeara5401]

😢😢😢😢😢 well done indeed, RIP Grandpa Mason ❤❤❤

[@girlrebuilt]

I am in tears. So many would never have given Mason a chance. He would either have been left out there to die slowly or euthanized upon his diagnosis. Not only did he get to spend his last years knowing true love and comfort, he gave back so much. He set an example for so many kittens about how to be grown cats, he gave orphaned kittens the type of love that only another cat can give them, and he showed the world that yes - older, ailing, battered ferals absolutely deserve love and do have love to give. I am heartbroken at his passing but just so delighted that he knew and gave so much happiness before he went. Rest well grandpa Mason. May you be forever surrounded by fluffy adoring kittens in your heaven. 🙏🏻

[@maheshpatil03]

Love you Mason , Rest in peace. You were loved so much by hoomans n kittens u trained ...

[@LadyVoldo]

Thank you for making this despite Mason being in Heaven.

[@crow4freedom603]

I come back occasionally just to rewatch this gentle giant, ty for all you did for Mason, forever in my heart ❤️

[@sunset6010]

HEAVEN just got a alot SWEETER ♡♡ Rest easy, Grandpa

[@feralsouls8102]

I am crying so hard, I am so sorry for your loss, as well as, for all of us here on TK, watching and loving Grandpa Mason with our whole hearts.

[@allmyrattys]

Crying my heart out. Thank you for giving him that time and showing him love and compassion.

[@CryogenicFire]

You are missed Grandpa Mason, each and every day 💜

[@Charoula1608]

Missing you every day Mason 💔💔

[@Emdicaro]

May you forever run in the fields of Elysium

[@RichO1701e]

I will see you again Mason, but not yet...not yet

[@hirisk761]

I'm in tears. RIP Grandpaw Mason

[@princessposy2629]

I know you are happy over the Rainbow Bridge, Mason, free of pain, eating all the tuna you want... but we miss you terribly, old fellow. Thank you for being here for us and all the kittens you "raised." R.I.P.

[@spfouts2007]

RIP you beautiful soul! im so glad he got to be comfy in his final years ❤️

[@sethraelthebard5459]

One of the most inspiring stories of the last ten years. Rest in Peace Mason...you earned it.

[@nancyjen7090]

Miss you Grandpa Mason 😔. Thank you for teaching us SO much. RIP ❤️

[@lutinab5265]

I'm so grateful he was rescued and spared from what would have been a horrible end of life in the wild. Thank you Shelly, and Tinykittens for always going above the call of duty and leading the way to compassionate care for feral cats. ❤

[@rosenrot234]

Rest well old man. May he be a guardian for all kittens wherever he goes from here.

[@keepcalmyouexist358]

Crying - RIP Grandpa Mason

[@ImaginaryAlchemist]

I started crying at the end, RIP Mason. Thank you, Tiny Kittens, for making his last years full of love. Watching him cuddle and play with the kittens really warmed my heart, and I know the kittens warmed his heart as well.

[@laurahoward485]

RIP Mason you made a difference in so many little lives and your spirit will live on forever

[@koslisted9458]

"Saving one animal won't change the world, but it will change the world for that one animal." ❤️❤️❤️

[@mdll2917]

Thank you so much for posting this. Mason will be remembered as a loving grandpa that despite all odds he thrived and made a difference. God bless you for all the wonderful work you do😍😊

[@phibbykaden]

Within the past year, we had to say good-bye to two of our cats five months apart, who lost their lives to illness and age. Both of them were at least semi-feral when my mom adopted them most of a decade ago, though they were both able to acclimate to indoor life given time. My mom always said that she was happy to have given them a nice warm home, and I've never had any reason to doubt her. Thank you for sharing Mason's story.

[@elizabethevenson6110]

my current not-a-kitten: his mama was fine being an indoor-outdoor rescue, but he was scared of my VOICE for a good two months and his (gone too soon) sister wasn't much better. the PLAN was "wean, get to people with actual kitten experience, keep mom". hearing "unadoptable since contact-skittish no room ANYWHERE in the region" when they'd hit "tolerable housemate" manners was definitely a case of i could live with not-cuddly but chill with hangouts and such kittens way easier than the alternatives. (guess what? sis grew to be a princess floof-sized chill af bb with a Harley-loud purr, current not-a-kitten is cuddly af and sleeps with me a lot.) so tl;dr *I'D* believe your mama, because i wasn't in her shoes but it sounds like we were in the same vicinity.

[@phibbykaden]

@@elizabethevenson6110 Sounds about right.

[@elizabethevenson6110]

@@phibbykaden my not-a-kitten just jumped up on the keyboard tray to say "hi" and get a quick pet before nibbling a bit. (naranja since unimaginative and he's an orange tabby. my mama calico's Cash Money, since seasonal tax preparer and it turns out personality tru--Cash *does* rule everything around me including my mostly outdoor chonk unit midnight who is a very large very SOLID black cat.)

[@pamelaatkinsonscats2873]

I didn't know Mason had died. I'm so sad, he made such a difference to all those kittens and they repaid by making his life happy. What a beautiful creature he was. Thank you for giving him a chance to live in comfort and safety.

[@flowerfaerie8931]

Oh look, I’m still crying over this cat that I never met half a year later. Grandpa Mason introduced me to TinyKittens and their incredible, lifesaving work. I will forever be grateful for this beautiful soul and the happiness he brought me and so many others. RIP angel, you were worth saving.

[@carolemommabear9377]

I’m still crying. He was so so special. He is such an inspiration on so many levels. Rip Grandpa Mason. Thank you for all the hours of joy you brought to so many..

[@Jomama02]

I'm glad I was home watching this. Crying my eyes out. Such a special old boy. His last years with you Shelly were probably the happiest of his life and on his terms. It's just shows how special he was and you and TK are.

[@karl06111976]

I wasn't, I broke down in front of all the other blokes at work, had to go to the toilet and try to get myself together

[@guesswho4555]

@@karl06111976 what an awesome human being you are to share your kind soul with us, in a way that few, if any, would have had the courage to do. Thank you for sharing your experience. You are like an angel in today's cruel world and I hope they perfect cloning in your life time. The world badly needs more people exactly like you. Thank you again.

[@AshenDalia]

Mason was such a wonderful grandpa cat and I'm so happy you all have him a chance to live peacefully and happily for the rest of his time. Seeing him with those kittens all those times was so heartwarming. I cried watching the first video that was put out about him, and I'm crying at this video too. Grandpa Mason will be very missed.

[@byeongcheol5610]

Thank you, Shelly, TinyKittens and TinyVillage for giving this sweet angel a beautiful retirement. His life is a legacy.

[@athenawilson4019]

I recently learned something new: about "permanent fostering". With a permanent foster contract, you take on a cat with health issues, and you get to keep him/her for life, but the rescue retains ownership, and therefore takes on all responsibility for medical expenses. This is an ideal arrangement for senior people, especially those on a fixed income. It solves SO many potential problems, and allows a senior and a senior pet share love and companionship without worry. Look into it! (Lily came from Fancy Cats & Fancy Dogs, in Virginia.)

[@perryphillip6306]

THANK YOU for this comment. This will make things easier (to sell the idea to The Mrs.) When I am able to do this.

[@withgoddess8029]

What a great idea

[@YuliJade]

I didn't know this was a thing!

[@joanneveltri5163]

Would like to know more about this

[@eveny119]

GREAT IDEA. Do you know if its everywhere in US?

[@kristinlong2278]

I was never a “cat person “ until 3 years ago when we rescued 2 kittens. We bottle fed them with the intention of finding them homes but fell in love instead. Now I watch cats on KZbin all the time and came across this video and it was so heartwarming so sweet to see what a difference Mason made for all those little kittens. I was nearly in tears, I knew it wasn’t going to end well, that he would pass but he died on my birthday and it just broke me. I never got to know him before he died, I haven’t cried so hard in a long time. RIP Angel.

[@kirstencorby8465]

Don't be sad. After a lifetime of scrapping on the streets, he had a blissful retirement, was well loved and gave love. He far outlived his original prognosis, and his story helps raise awareness about feral cat management. He died at home, in peace, surrounded by his loved ones. None of us can hope for anything better.

[@guesswho4555]

@@kirstencorby8465 must you be so empathetic and understanding, with perfectly expressed emotion? Who can keep a dry face with you around? Tears that force themselves from your eyes, hurt!

[@Lovelove77788]

Thank you for loving 🐈 they are truly Angels. All animals are 🥰

[@dianaschreier5672]

I am responding to your sweet message. I had just saw the video of that wonderful cat - Grandpa Mason and I my eyes are still full of tears after reading so many messages regarding this special kitty. I guess God try to make up for all his bad years by being with the kittens at the end. Grandpa must have died with his heart full of love. My heart for last hour reading all the messages is both happy he died this way, but yet I'm broken hearted at the same time.

[@mu_cchi]

Just imagine if the kittens meowing and that probably mean "Mom, where's grandpa?".

[@juliam.426]

Min Meowngi Stop cutting onions in my room.

[@sandraclaus5514]

Will never forget!❤️💕🤟

[@tuvelat7302]

I can only hope someone keeps me supplied with kittens in my final days.

[@clarascloset]

Grandpa Mason lives on through all his charges, who were adopted, and lessons he taught us.