Ty or "Thicken Nugget" became an internet sensation as he took up swimming as a part of his weight loss journey.  Here's what he's up to today.

Viral Internet Moments

In the world of social media and instant gratification, it seems like everyone is looking for that one viral moment.  Ask anyone who has gone viral, it can truly be life changing in both good and bad ways.  Here in the Tri-State, we've had our fair share of viral moments.   Just recently, the Vanderburgh Humane Society went viral (to the tune of several million views) because they made a puppy seemingly appear out of thin air.

However, this wasn't the first time the VHS went viral.  You may remember a year ago when the internet lost its collective mind over a chunky cat who loved to swim.

Ty AKA Thicken Nugget the 30lbs Cat

The internet seems to have an affinity for fat cats, and there's no shame in that, just an observation.  In April 2024, the Vanderbrugh Humane Society shared a story about Ty, the adorably fat cat.  Ty is lovingly referred to as "Thicken Nugget" by those who know him.

He came into the VHS weighing a whopping 30 pounds.  Obviously, that weight is extremely unhealthy for a cat, so they had to get creative with ways to help him. That's when they turned to swimming.

The Fat Swimming Cat Breaks the Internet

They came up with a creative solution to help Ty out, they took him to the Canine Aquatic Center in Evansville, and after fitting him for a life jacket, they began aquatic therapy for him.  According to Eyewitness News, in just two weeks, Ty had already lost 5 lbs.  His story quickly became a viral sensation, getting covered by everyone, including People.

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Where is Thicken Nugget Now?

The adorably chonky guy has been lying low since his viral fame first started, but where is he now?  On May 13th, The Dodo shared an update to his story.  Ty is now happy and living comfortably at his forever home with the woman who fostered him.  I mean, how could she not keep him?!  Ty is much more mobile now and is living a healthier, happier life where he can get around his house with ease.

Ty is still on his weight loss journey, but is also enjoying his time as a pampered pet, and even has his own modeling gig these days!