Messi the Puma, an Internet sensation in his own right

Meet Alexandr and Mariya Dmitriev from Penza, Russia, proud parents to an extraordinary companion: Messi the Puma, an Internet sensation in his own right. Initially, the idea of harboring a puma as a housecat may seem audacious, but delving into the remarkable journey of Messi unveils a heartwarming tale of compassion and resilience.

Messi’s journey begins at the zoo in Saransk, Russia, where he and two fellow cougar cubs were born, aptly named after soccer players in anticipation of the 2018 World Cup. Despite his zest for life, Messi’s fragile health cast doubt on his survival. As pumas are non-native to Russia, releasing him into the wild was not an option, and his health concerns made rehoming impossible. Facing euthanasia at just eight months old, Messi’s fate took a dramatic turn when Alexandr and Mariya encountered him at the zoo, igniting an instant connection that would change all their lives.

In a selfless act of love, Alexandr and Mariya welcomed Messi into their modest one-bedroom apartment, alongside their sphynx cat, Kira. Though their living space may seem unconventional for a wild animal, Alexandr’s lifelong dream of nurturing a big cat prevailed. Despite initial frailty, Messi flourished under their dedicated care, overcoming health hurdles with resilience and determination.

Transitioning seamlessly between feline and canine behaviors, Messi accompanies his devoted owners on daily walks and even attends dog training classes, mastering a repertoire of commands. Their home transformed into a haven for the spirited puma, complete with a tailored play area to accommodate his active lifestyle. Despite his wild origins, Messi’s gentle disposition shines through, endearing him to all who meet him.

Ensuring Messi’s well-being comes at a cost, with the Dmitrievs dedicating substantial resources to his care, including a monthly expenditure of $300-600 on raw meat. Adjusting their lifestyle to accommodate their unique companion, vacations are now dictated by Messi’s needs, illustrating the depth of their commitment.