Heston Domestic Short Hair Austin, TX

Persnickety, Loving Velcro-Cat

Heston is a funny but endearing little cat. Especially when moved to a new place, he can be a little awkward and unsure of himself, vacillating between whether he wants to come out for pets or not. While he can initially come across like a grumpy old man, he really just needs time to adjust and warm up.

Once it dawns on him that the person taking care of and sharing space with him might, in fact, dole out sufficient and acceptable pets, Heston turns into a total sweetheart. It's like a switch turns on, and he suddenly becomes very visity, announcing he's ready for pets by chirping and hopping onto your desk or following you around and polishing your ankles (punctuated with a couple head bonks) to the point of getting underfoot when he is determined to get your attention. He even turns into an unrepentant (but totally adorable) chair thief! He also politely taps on your arm or plants his front paws on your chair arm rest and gives you a gentle bunt to remind you that his head is in need of scritches, please. As his desire for affection increases, so does the intensity of his bunts and his persistence for lap time! His fur is incredibly soft and plushy, so you really can't pass up any opportunity to cuddle him and smooch his little head when he's in a lovey mood. Besides, how can anyone say no to that handsome little face?

Before coming to APA!, Heston was in rough shape due to previous injuries that have resulted in him having some back pain. This makes him a little stiff and sensitive along his back, so it's best to pet and pick him up very gently. He takes daily medication for his back, which is easily sprinkled into his food. Heston's fosters have learned that he's a social eater who appreciates his person sitting with him and encouraging him to eat with a few gentle pats. He has solid house manners and, because he's on the fastidious side, appreciates having a very clean litter box. He hasn't quite figured out what cat beds are used for, but he's happy to snooze on yours!

Heston had no issues with his foster's elderly dog and pretty much ignored him. When he's briefly seen or smelled other cats through the door in his foster's home, though, he was not welcoming and became stressed, so he might do best as an only cat. While VERY affectionate at times, Heston can sometimes get a little overstimulated when petted and will let you know when he's had enough of pets or needs some space. Because of this and his back sensitivities, he'd do best in a home with adults only, as children might not get the message when he's done or would like to be left alone.

Changes are stressful for older kitties, so giving Heston plenty of time to get used to everything in his new home and some space, and then he will begin seeking you out for attention and even sitting on your lap if it's available! If you're looking for a couch buddy or a bed snuggler, Heston is the cat for you because he'll happily do both! Heston is an older guy with an achy back, so he'd do best with patient people who give him time to adapt at his pace and all the love he deserves. All he needs is gentle people to love, a sunny window to nap in, and a toy or two, and then this boy will live his best life!

All APA! cats are fully vetted, spayed or neutered, and have updated vaccines and a microchip. Lifetime support is offered by our Cat Behavior Team.

For further information or to meet Heston, please email adopt@austinpetsalive.org.