Last updated: 9 Aug, 2021
Published on: 14 Feb, 2018
70 year old loves coming home to her Tiger
When a newsletter from National Seniors appeared in Judy’s inbox last December, little did she know that it was the start of a new life together for her and a furry feline named Tiger.
Judy from Boondall in QLD is in her early 70s and has lived alone, without any pet companions, for a few years now.
“I've had dogs more recently, but it's been 30 years since I last cared for a cat," Judy explained. "After meeting my daughter’s beautiful and friendly rescue cats, I started to think that maybe it was time to welcome a feline back in to my life."
When reading her emails one day, Judy came across PetRescue’s Senior Citizens and Shy Cats adoption campaign in the National Seniors newsletter and got in contact via the campaign helpline. “I really wanted to care for a rescue cat, one that's friendly but not too energetic," said Judy.
On the other side of the enquiry line was Caren, PetRescue’s Adoption and Pet Owner Support Co-ordinator. Caren was able to explain how shy cats are looking for homes just like Judy’s - ones that are quiet and calm - and that a little time, patience and love goes such a long way for a shy cat.
Judy loved the idea of helping a shy cat and was very keen to find a new companion. So Caren immediately got to work picking out some suitable cats to match Judy’s lifestyle and location, and sent Judy a list of available kitties and the rescue groups' contact details.
After getting in contact with some rescue groups in her area that Caren has provided her with details for, Judy was matched with Tiger from Soquilichi Rescue Ranch, a one-year-old tabby who was in foster care close to her home. Judy arranged a visit to the foster carer’s house to meet Tiger, and it was as if they were meant to be.
“Tiger came straight over and nuzzled me,” Judy recalls. From this moment, she knew a cat was the right choice. “He picked me. I felt so happy.”
Taking her new companion home, Judy soon found out that food was definitely the way to Tiger’s heart. “He wanders around, winding himself around my legs, especially when I’m near the fridge. He loves food!”
Tiger isn’t a fan of being held, but that’s ok with Judy. “He prefers to come to me, sitting in front of the computer when I’m using it and sitting near me on the couch. He loves to nuzzle and loves a pat on the head.” When he’s not surfing the web with Judy, Tiger likes to play and he loves sitting in the window, peering outside and watching the world go by.
Adopting a cat has really made a difference to Judy’s life. She looks forward to coming home now, as she knows that Tiger will be there, excited to welcome her back. He likes to sleep on her bed or on the blanket box at the end of the bed, purring away with the knowledge that he is safe, comfortable and very loved in his new home.
We need your help spreading the word about PetRescue’s Shy Cats and Senior Citizens program, so that more people like Lily can connect with cats in need, like Angie!
Do you know a senior citizen with a quiet home and lots of love to give?
Print this flyer and pop it up at your local shops, library, senior citizens centre, vet clinic or in your neighbours’ letterbox. Help connect shy cats with senior citizens - they make super companions!
Find out more about PetRescue’s Shy Cats and Senior Citizens program.