Chubbs, The Big Cat Who Stole All Our Hearts, Has A New Home

A dog he is not, but Chubbs the cat had his day.

The big cat that captured hearts across the internet last week was adopted at the Pasadena Humane Society Wednesday.

For the uninitiated, the portly purr machine was found wandering the streets of nearby Altadena by a good Samaritan and brought to the shelter. His first weigh-in put him at a whopping 29 pounds.

As social media erupted with fascination and glee over this absolute unit, the humane society was flooded with calls and messages of people interested in adopting Chubbs. People were even sharing how he had inspired them to lose weight, according to Julie Banks, president and CEO of Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA.

"It's incredible," she said. "One stray cat who's a little chubby has inspired the internet."

Chubbs was getting the presidential treatment Wednesday, hanging out in Banks' office before the action kicked off at noon.

After shaving some of his severely matted fur and putting him on a diet, he's now down to 26.3 pounds‬.

Applications to adopt Chubbs were taken on a first come, first serve basis, shelter officials said.

The internet star even had a fan show up to wish him well.

Chubbs cheerleader, Albert Fernandez, showed up at the Pasadena Humane Society on his adoption day, just for moral support. (Photo by Naomi Brauner/LAist)

"I've been rescuing on my own my whole life," said Albert Fernandez, who showed up with sign. "I had to show my support. Show the world how much we love animals," he said.

Chubbs' new parents told us they'd been grappling with the loss of their cat, Mushu.

"I didn't want to adopt a cat at all, because I was letting myself grieve. But then [Chubbs] came on TV and my girlfriend, who is also a cat lover, said 'I found your cat,'" said Yvette Viola.

Ruben Viola, agreed. "I think it's great. We love cats ... This will be a good fit"

Godspeed, Chubbs, you big, beautiful boy.

Naomi Brauner contributed to this story.

You made it! Congrats, you read the entire story, you gorgeous human. This story was made possible by generous people like you. Independent, local journalism costs $$$$$. And now that LAist is part of KPCC, we rely on that support. So if you aren't already, be one of us! Help us help you live your best life in Southern California. Donate now.