The RSPCA in York is looking for patient and understanding owners to help two nervous cats build a bond with humans again.
Gary, 15 months, and Harry, five, who are both black and white, are ‘desperate’ to get out of a cattery environment and into loving homes of their own, say staff at the charity’s York, Harrogate and District Branch rehoming centre in Landing Lane.
Both cats came into the charity’s care separately because of sad circumstances seven months ago and need understanding owners who will help them grow in confidence and let them take things at their own pace.
Gary was rescued by an RSPCA inspector from unsuitable living conditions after his owner was unable to cope with looking after him because of poor mental health. The young cat was so nervous when he arrived at the centre that he wouldn’t let anyone get near him for weeks, but he’s becoming much braver and loves a fuss from people he trusts.
Harry’s world has also been turned upside down after his owner sadly passed away. The experience of coming into rescue left him traumatised at first and he would constantly hide away in any place he could.
Although he’s still nervous, Harry is making great progress and is beginning to interact more with people and become inquisitive about what is going on in the cattery.
Staff says both cats need quiet adult homes as indoor-only pets with adopters who will let them settle over time and take things at their own pace.
Unfortunately, black, and black and white cats can take up to three times longer to rehome than felines with other coat colours.
Animal Centre Manager Ruth McCabe, said: “Gary and Harry are super cats who deserve the best life and we’re desperate to get both of them out of the cattery and into their own homes where we know they will thrive.
“They’ve both come on in leaps and bounds in our care and will be loyal and loving pets to people who are willing to give them time, space and understanding.
“We appreciate that taking on a nervous cat is an extra special ask, but the love you get back from them once you’ve gained their trust and friendship is immeasurable. Here at RSPCA York we believe there is someone out there for every cat, and we’d appeal to anyone who thinks they can help Gary and Harry to enjoy this next chapter in their lives, to get in touch.”
Gary needs patient adopters who are experienced with anxious cats and will understand not only his quirky ways, but also see life through his eyes. Slowly but surely, with a hands off approach, is the best way forward with him, but once he’s gained your trust he loves a fuss, especially if you offer him his favourite feather wand toy.
Adopters will need a spare room they can dedicate to Gary as he is anxious about open spaces. Once he’s settled and becomes more confident, he can then start to explore the rest of the house in his own time. Extra care will need to be taken with windows and doors.
Harry also needs calm, considerate and understanding owners who will let him ease into his new home at his own pace. Like Gary, he ideally needs a quiet room that can be his space until he’s confident enough to venture into the rest of the house. Because of his nervous nature he will also need to be a permanent, indoor-only cat.
This month the RSPCA is celebrating Adoptober, the charity’s month-long rehoming campaign which aims to boost adoption rates and focus on the many rescue animals who are waiting to find their perfect match. Nearly 400 cats, dogs and small animals have been rehomed by the York, Harrogate and District Branch already this year – but many more are still waiting at the Landing Lane centre – details of them all are on the branch’s website.
