River (FIV+) & Ocelot (bonded pair) Tabby Minneapolis, MN

River and Ocelot are a wonderfully misfit duo. Though they have different backgrounds, their stories have sad similarities. They were both rescued from the streets of Minneapolis. River (about 6 years) was a family pet at one point who was most likely dumped and left to fend for himself. Ocelot (about 2 years) was similarly being cared for by a woman in Minneapolis however she was actually born outside. They were rescued separately by their foster and, since coming to trust and love humans in her care, have also come to love each other.

They have a big brother, little sister type of relationship that will melt anyones heart.

Ocelot, also known as Ocey (pronounced “Aussie”), is one of a kind, a true beauty. Her personality and her outer beauty match each other in that both are unassuming yet awe-inspiring.

From her head to her tail Ocelot is one of the softest cats you'll ever pet. Her hair shines as if she were born to be in a Pantene commercial. Some of her whiskers are white, some all black while others are both. Her eyes are a stunning jade green and her adorable paw pads are black, as is the outline of her sweet little nose.

Ocelot is fiercely loyal to her chosen humans. She will bow her head to greet you, anticipating a pat on the forehead. She will start to purr before you touch her. If you tell her a quiet "I love you" she purrs back as if to answer "and I you" in response. She likes to sit next to you on the sofa and revel in any praise or compliment you give her. While Ocelot is extremely sweet she is also shy. Likely visitors will never see her, but she’ll tear through the house without a care in the world when it’s just her and you, after she gets to know you of course.

Because of her shy nature the perfect adopter would need to be patient in earning her trust.

River on the other hand is the resident greeter of the home. He runs to the door whenever he hears it opening, eager to meet whoever is on the other side. He will rub against the legs of anyone, even the plumber that’s come to do a job that doesn’t like cats.

Because of his outgoing nature River acts as a security blanket for Ocelot. She is comforted by his presence and knows that if he is comfortable than she can be too. The evidence of River’s rough past is visible through the scars and cuts on his ears and head from too many cat fights with other outdoor toms. It was through these skirmishes that he contracted FIV, which means his immune system isn’t the greatest. Because of this, he would do best in a calmer environment to keep his stress at a minimum, plus Ocelot appreciates a quiet environment as well.

River was likely abused prior to being rescued and can get scared that you’re going to hurt him if you use your foot to nudge him out of the way. He can also sometimes be particular about how he likes to be pet and will give you a gentle warning bite. You can see that coming as he has many tells when he gets overstimulated. For that reason, he should be in a home without children.

He may always look serious with his unblinking eyes and big, beefy body, but he is truly a sweetheart. He likes to check in on his foster mom every once in a while as she works from home. He sits at her feet and meows politely for a few pets before going on about his business.

While Ocelot will sit by your side River wants to be on your lap whenever you’re on the couch. It’s become a nightly ritual with his foster mom. River will stare at her, trying to will her to sit down after which he immediately hops up to assume his spot.

Ocelot and River love to play, both with each other and with their human. When their foster plays with them River stands back and lets Ocelot get her fill until she’s tired out and then he takes his turn. Both are master hunters having lived outside and fended for themselves so they love a bit of a challenge when it comes to playtime. They also like to chase each other through the house and back and forth through their kitty tunnel.

When they’ve tired themselves out they argue over who gets to bathe the other and then find a cozy spot to nap. They both enjoy watching the birds and squirrels outside from a perch on the cat tower. River especially likes it when the window is open so he can smell the fresh air and reminisce about his past life chasing mice for his dinner.

They both now prefer Fancy Feast for their meals instead. Because they were food-insecure before being rescued it’s best to give them measured meals so they don’t eat too much. River had a UTI last year so they should eat mainly wet food.

Consider giving these two sweeties the second chance they both deserve!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

River is FIV+, but that doesn’t mean he can’t live a long, normal, and healthy life! Cats with FIV commonly have average lifespans. Because FIV is spread only through deep bite wounds, FIV-positive cats can live with FIV-negative cats in stable social environments. You can read more about FIV here: https://tinyurl.com/58sf9wtj

There is no guarantee of age and breed as a rescue animal’s history is unknown. All ages and breeds are the best estimate.

Adoption fees include a mandatory sales tax of 7.525%.

All cats have received comprehensive veterinary care and tested negative for feline leukemia and FIV unless otherwise stated. Cats are up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccinations and have been spayed/neutered, treated for fleas and/or ear mites, de-wormed, and microchipped. Please note there may be additional follow-up visits and boosters that are not covered by Pet Haven after adoption.

Interested in adopting or learning more about this cat? Please fill out Pet Haven’s adoption application: http://bit.ly/2fd9U2Fpethavenmnwww..org/adopt