Rickie

Meet Rickie

Spayed Female
Age: 12 Years
Black and White
Domestic Short Hair
A443639

More about Rickie:

I came to the shelter as a stray, so we have no history for me. But while I have been here, lots has been determined about me.

I am easily stressed and overwhelmed during transitions, so I am looking for an adopter who is willing to give me as much time as I need to settle in. This could be a couple or days or weeks. My success will be dependent on how well my adopter is able to read and understand my body language.

It is recommended that I be set up in my own space (an extra bedroom or bathroom) – a space that people or pets will not use unless going in to clean or feed. I should be left alone initially as I adjust. This space should include plenty of hiding places, ideally with access to a vertical surface such as a cat tree or a cat-proofed shelf. I can gradually be given more access to the home when I am confidently moving about my environment with relaxed body language when my adopter visits me in my room.

Meeting new people can be very overwhelming for me. It is possible that I may only comfortable with the people in my bubble. My adopter should be comfortable with a cat who may not ever want to expand their social circle.

I may be conflicted about close handling/petting. I should be thought of as a `pet myself on you` kind of cat until I am comfortable with my adopter, versus them coming up to me. Once petting has been initiated, use `consent tests` … remove hands briefly to give me an opportunity to opt back into pets, or show I am all done.

I am a senior lady. I was tolerant for my initial exam with a towel restraint, and it is recommended that my adopter work with a fear-free vet to come up with a handling plan that will reduce stress for everyone, and keep everyone safe.

The shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon – 4:30pm, with no appointment needed to meet available cats.

Compatibility:
Cats: No history – shelter personnel will discuss separation and management.
Dogs: No history – might be okay with a cat-savvy dog that knows to give me space when needed. Shelter personnel will discuss separation and management.
Kids: Cat-savvy with good shy-cat skills