U.S.

Arizona shelter takes in 36-pound cat

/ CBS News

PHOENIX - At 36 pounds, Meatball is a lot of kitty to love.

The tubby tabby was surrendered to the Maricopa County Animal Care &

Meatball is "the biggest cat I have ever seen," said Melissa Gable of Maricopa County Animal Care & Control. KPHO

Control's East Valley Animal Care Center in Mesa, Ariz.

Meatball is "the biggest cat I have ever seen," the MCACC's Melissa Gable told CBS affiliate KPHO.

MCACC staff said Meatball had apparently been shuffled from home to home before being brought to the shelter.

Despite his girth, Meatball is able to walk. The shelter's veterinary team said it is watching his health closely.

Meatball is so large, he can't comfortably fit in the shelter's regular cat kennels and is living in one of the administrative offices at MCACC's West Valley Animal Care Center in Phoenix, KPHO said.

Although Meatball is affectionate, he is not available for general adoption. MCACC staff said they are trying to find a spot with a rescue organization that specializes in overweight cats because of his risk for severe health issues, the need for constant monitoring and because he needs a special prescribed diet.

Meatball can walk, despite his girth, and veterinary staff are monitory his health closely. KPHO

First published on January 30, 2014 / 7:44 PM EST

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