Garfield returns home after a poisoning attempt in the cemetery

The story of the cat from Portugal touched people around the world. Garfield lived in the cemetery in Póvoa de Varzim, where his owner was buried. After more than a year, he was obliged to leave the necropolis. This was necessary because the animal needed veterinary care after someone attempted to poison him.

Garfield became a local sensation after the death of his 86-year-old owner, who passed away in January of last year. He vanished, only to be discovered months later at the cemetery. The owner's granddaughter, Susana Vilar, respected the cat's choice and allowed him to remain at the necropolis, where he became a worker's favorite. However, this spring, Garfield fell victim to a poisoning attempt.

"After someone attempted to harm him, it will be better for everyone if Garfield returns to the family home," stated Susana Vilar.

The cat, who had accompanied his owner in the final months of his life, earned a new nickname at the cemetery – "Prince".

Cemetery workers emphasised that the cat remained on the necropolis grounds day and night. One of the workers, Sara Cardoso admitted that the animal often accompanied her while she performed various tasks, constantly demanding petting. She added that she had no idea how the cat appeared at the cemetery. The truth was revealed when Garfield was found at the cemetery by the granddaughter of the deceased 86-year-old owner in January 2024.

"Grandpa adopted Garfield during the coronavirus pandemic. When he fell ill, the cat used to lie beside him on the bed," revealed Susana.

Susana added that the cat stopped entering the house after her grandfather passed away. He also didn't want to eat until he eventually disappeared. He was found a few months later, and following the poisoning attempt, he ultimately returned home once more.