Roger the street cat looking for new home
Cats ProtectionAn ailing street cat who survived outside for 10 years has been restored to health and is enjoying a slower pace of life - but needs a forever home.
Roger was brought to Cats Protection Wolverhampton after a member of the public spotted him struggling. He was diagnosed with untreated dental disease which made eating painful.
After having eight teeth removed and undergoing a good cleanup and neutering, he is now enjoying "sunbathing and affection", the charity said, ahead of his search for a permanent home.
"Roger is a very special little character. At heart he is a gentle, sweet cat who was dealt a very tough hand in life," said volunteer, Sandra Marshall.
Roger is believed to be 10 years old and was rescued in March, the charity said. As well as surgery, he has also been microchipped, vaccinated, and had his ears and coat treated.
"He has quickly learned to enjoy indoor comforts and is slowly learning to enjoy human attention," said Marshall.
"Roger now head-bumps his fosterer and loves to receive head scratches and simply be close to her."
The charity said he needed a "quiet" home with a family who can give him the attention he has missed out on while fending for himself.
'Leaving street life firmly behind'
"Roger hides from new people at first so will not cope well with a busy over-social home," Marshall said.
"We know he would like a garden, as he has discovered the delights of sunbathing and will spend hours... letting the sun warm his bones.
"He would settle more easily as an only cat because he bears the scars of some difficult times defending himself against other cats outside."
Marshall said whoever took him in would also need to understand he is still adjusting to life indoors and be comfortable giving him arthritis medication.
"Roger's gentle ways and openness to affection has made us all incredibly fond of him and we cannot wait to find him the right family where his street life can be left firmly behind," she added.
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