Patrolling his territory, hungry and dirty – that was the life of Starvin’ Marvin before an Animal Welfare Officer from The Mayhew Animal Home found him.

He was only 2 years old but he was worn out. Marvin, (quickly to become known as Starvin’ Marvin) had been living as part of a colony of 18 feral cats. Fighting, scavenging for food, breeding and trying to find a safe place to sleep was his daily routine.

As part of their Trap, Neuter and Return scheme for feral cats, Animal Welfare Officers from The Mayhew worked with this colony for over 8 months neutering the cats and collecting kittens which were young enough for rehoming. Marvin was the last cat to be caught and while the rest of the cats in the colony were feral, Starvin’ Marvin was very friendly. He was clearly a domestic cat who had been left out in the street, unvaccinated and un-neutered by an irresponsible pet owner and had become covered with fleas and scars.

Video Loading

When he arrived back at The Mayhew, Starvin’ Marvin was picked out of his basket and given a big cuddle. He immediately started purring and has barely stopped since.

Starvin’ Marvin is now clean, his scars have healed and he has a full tummy. He loves being looked after. If you can home this beautiful streetwise boy call 020 8962 8000 or see details of how to adopt him at themayhew.org.

If you are in Regents Park on May 18, watch out for Superman, Spiderman and Wonder Woman as they speed by as part of the Doitforcharity Superhero Run. Cheerleaders and runners will be there supporting The Mayhew. If you want to take part in a later run in aid of The Mayhew, this is an advance notice to give you time to prepare. The Mayhew needs runners for the British 10k London Run on July 13. Registration is £30 and you need to raise at least £200 in sponsorship. If you are interested, contact Lauren Coleman on 020 8206 5875 or email to events@mayhewanimalhome.org.uk.

Read more of Marion's animal columns