Veteran Trucker Rescues Abandoned Kitten and Trains Him to Be the Purrfect Co-Driver

While there’s a guy living in the heart of Alabama, his travel adventures have the ability to stir the hearts of millions of people. The viewers got familiar with Mike Mattingly, who performed as the “Old Trucker,” traveling from one point of the country to another and never leaving his kitten behind. These companions are not just any pets; they are the focus and driving force of Mike’s incredible story.

From Strays to Family

Cat on Truck Dashboard. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

This abandoned kitten became Mike’s trusted companions in these exciting adventures. But, as the years progressed, home werd calling louder. In Bear Creek, Mike and his wife used a dwelling they had put up to support stray cats.

Cat in Truck — Cat in Glovebox of a Truck. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

She and her partner inhabiting their warm nest, but it was not the only inhabitants of the house; it was home for the felines who decided to roam the world but came back home.

Because it goes without saying, these lost little animals received all the essential medical check-ups, healthy bites, and lots of affection.

The Kitten Who Stole Hearts

Cat Sleeping Peacefully. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

One day, when Mike was at home for some reason and had a chance to get acquainted with his friends, he met Bobby. Bobby was a domestic shorthair cat that was left all alone – the only kitten that his mama cat had – left to die.

Mike could not afford to sit and watch him suffer like the rest of the people who were affected by this deadly disease. And the logical continuation of this scenario is that he looked after Bobby until the latter is completely cured.

Gradually, Bobby was close to Mike and became his road buddy. Whether, sitting on Mike’s back, playing with material things or sitting on the wheel of Mike’s truck, Bobby was not a mere pet; he was loved like one of their own.

TikTok Stardom and Unexpected Blessings

Cat watching outside the truck. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

Mike’s TikTok videos of their adventures struck a chord. Millions followed their journey, captivated by Bobby’s antics. As Mike put it, “That little kitten right there is a blessing to me.” But Bobby’s impact went beyond companionship. He helped Mike battle heart-related issues, providing more healing than any prescription ever could.

A Heartbreaking Farewell

Cat on Trucker's Shoulders — Cat on Trucker’s Shoulders. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

Unfortunately though, the time Bobby the kitten had was limited and he succumbed to the disease. This lovely creature passed away due to a very bad case of respiratory disease, and the rainbow bridge was the only way he knew how to cross. Mike’s grief was immeasurable.

Still he had something to comfort himself and that was in cherishing Bobby’s memories. Donations poured into the Colbert County Animal Shelter—a clear testament to the love that people had for the tiny cat that had captured the imagination of many.

A Children’s Book with Purpose

Children’s book dedicated to sweet little Bobby the Cat. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

John O’Grady and Nicole Marie even dedicated a children’s book to Bobby’s story, which clearly shows people’s adoration for this dedicated and talented player.

Old Trucker and Bobby the kitten came to the campus to tell everyone their stories about the open road; it was great fun which was in aid of our shelter. However, it seems that life had yet more up its sleeves in terms of incredible events in one’s lifetime.

Butterball, Popeye, and Lulu

Cat Playing with its favorite toy on dashboard of truck. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

Around Bobby’s passing, three ginger kittens entered Mike’s life. Butterball, Popeye, and Lulu became the new road companions. Mike felt their arrival was serendipitous—a blessing when he needed it most.

As they grew, Lulu and Butterball found forever homes, while Popeye stayed with Mike. Together, they retired from the road, enjoying home vibes with Mike’s wife and their two canine buddies.

A Fitting End to an Extraordinary Journey

Cat Sleeping in the Truck. Image by @old_trucker via TikTok

As one TikTok follower quipped, “I guess Popeye is retired from truck driving too.” Indeed, Popeye found his forever home, and Mike’s heart overflowed with gratitude.

The road may have ended, but the love and memories live on, proving that sometimes, the most remarkable journeys begin with a stray kitten and an old trucker’s big heart.