Ralphie Domestic Short Hair Roslindale, MA

COURTESY POST – Ralphie – Available for Adoption

After 5 months in foster, six year old Ralphie is looking for a new home following his owner's severe health decline. Ralphie is an extra-large, lush coated, healthy, tuxedo cat who likes catnip, string toys, to be brushed, petted all the way down on the forehead, and to hang out with people. Though not really a lap cat yet, he has been working on it, and will do so while being brushed, but due to his size, it's probably more comfortable for everyone if he's a "near" cat rather than an "on" cat.

Ralphie has been accustomed to a screened porch for bird/critter watching, and loves sun bathing (he sports his own string(less) bikini) but has always been an indoor cat and should continue to be. In his former home he slept IN the bed. In foster he has chosen to sleep on it at the foot. He has impeccable litter box habits.

Unfortunately Ralphie hates other cats, and though he has lived with dogs, can be bossy with them, so would need a friendly dog that can stand up for itself or he may be best as an only pet. Due to a strong prey drive, he should not go to a home with small pets.

Ralphie has definite opinions, and if you have petted him too long, or in the wrong place, or left him alone too long, he may let you know with a swat or a play bite. If you pay some attention to his tail, most problems can be easily avoided. He has become less reactive over time, so this is likely something that will continue to diminish. His ideal home would be with cat savvy adults or older teens, quiet, and with someone around much of the time. He has been a perfect example of the more (time) you give, the more (of a bond) you get.

It has taken Ralphie some time to settle in and his new owner should expect the same, but he has come a long way since arrival. In the past 5 months he has grown from the shy, anti-social hider he was in his former home to a cat who will run right up to you when you enter a room and I fully expect he will continue to blossom in the right new home. He has become a great companion and if not for his cat issue, we would keep him in a heartbeat. We will surely miss his silly antics (he can do tricks!) and entertaining character.

Ralphie is 6 years old, neutered and up-to-date on all his shots. If you are interested in meeting him, contact Boston's Forgotten Felines on Facebook or at catadoptions@bostonsforgottenfelines.org!