When Elmer recently arrived at the Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT), the little kitten could barely see. Elmer was covered “from ear to tail” in thick industrial adhesive. Unable to eat, drink or groom himself, Elmer tried his best to hold on, feeling weaker by the minute.

Rescuers still aren’t sure how Elmer became trapped in the bucket of adhesive, but they’re glad the Good Samaritan who found him did the right thing by seeking help. Upon arrival, Elmer was severely dehydrated. He wouldn’t make it much longer on his own.

Experts quickly got to work, using canola oil to gently remove the glue from Elmer’s fur. For hours, team members gently massaged Elmer’s body, reassuring the kitten and trying to keep him as comfortable as possible.

“It wasn’t fast or easy,” HSNT wrote in a Facebook post. “But it was steady, patient care that met the moment with exactly what he needed most.”

Finally, after hours of work, rescuers managed to remove each bit of adhesive from Elmer’s gray fur. At last, he looked like a fluffy kitten again.

Today, Elmer is recovering in foster care, regaining his strength. Once he’s ready, he’ll begin looking for his new family.

“While he still has healing ahead, due to the glue removal, he’s already showing his personality, sticking close to anyone offering warmth and affection,” HSNT wrote.

Sweet Elmer hasn’t let his past get him down, and rescuers continue to be charmed by his affectionate personality.

“After getting a seven-hour massage, he expects a spa day every day,” a representative from the humane society told The Dodo.

Rescuers are so happy to see Elmer thriving, and they’re grateful for the rescue infrastructure that gave him a second chance.

“Stories like Elmer’s reflect what’s possible every day at HSNT, where urgency, expertise and compassion turn crisis into hope,” the humane society wrote. “Thank you for standing with us.”