Gus, i do not think your mom should say thank you to the guys that left you in a shed to die. They should say thank you to her as by taking you in she and the people who rescued you prevented them from committing murder.
It is really terrible to hear that people who breed prized champion cats can be so cruel. It is a shame-also for the responsible breeders who care for their cats as much as we all here at Pet Talk do.
But back to you: I think when you were a kitten you had a certain sad look in your eyes. But now we can see that you turned out a gorgeous and handsome boy who reminds me of a lion. You must be a great companion, for your humans as well as for your kitty friends.
Congratulations for being Cat if the Day today