Carter, the cat, came to Exploits Valley SPCA as an emaciated stray. Rough around the edges, he was withdrawn and timid and would hiss if anyone came near.
“This, of course, deters people from adopting him when other cats leap into your arms. But Carter deserves love and needs it to finally feel safe and comfortable,” the SPCA shared.
They saw a gentle soul behind those fearful eyes. “He loves his chin scratched and to be spoken to softly.”
Over the next six months, the shelter staff worked tirelessly to socialize Carter and help him trust. He no longer hid away in his kennel and felt comfortable enough to stretch and relax in the room.
He got along with friendly cats but mostly kept to himself. With his newfound confidence, he approached people for attention and pets, and his playful side also emerged.
“He’s grown in many ways… not only just in width. Carter now loves staff and volunteers and is even friendly with the public who come to visit. This guy has done a total 180 since coming to the shelter and is always making us laugh.”
“He’s gone from being a cat that no one could touch to rolling over looking for belly rubs.”
In a different part of the shelter, Henry, the cat, had arrived with matted fur all over his legs and underbelly. After a spa day, he felt much better and curled up in his bed for some much-needed shut-eye.
But the shelter environment was stressful for him. “Henry wasn’t happy and starting to be a bit of a bully.”
He wanted to be the star of attention and didn’t want to share his space with other cats. “He is sweet to people, especially when you fawn over him and tell him how gorgeous he is. At only a few years old, he was rescued from outside and never claimed.”
For a while, the staff thought he would need a home where he could be the only kitty.
