(originally sent March 11, 2007)

I know there's been a lot of message traffic lately for cats needing homes. I was actually hoping that would stop for a while because I know you guys must feel bombarded. However, there is a lady in Palmdale with a 17 year old cat who needs a home. She's leaving the state, so she needs to place him by March 23rd. She's checked the local shelters and they're all full. If she doesn't find a home for him, the only option left is to euthanize him, which she really doesn't want to do because he's healthy and has at least a few good years left in him. In light of her time sensitive request and the possible outcome, I told her I would do whatever I could to help, so here is a description of the cat and the situation.

"Jet is 17 yrs old, neutered, declawed and an absolute love. Owner died recently and he needs a safe, loving environment to live out his remaining years. He's in excellent health, lean, and once he warms up to his new owner, will be very affectionate. He gets along with dogs, I don't know about other cats. He's a housecat, litterbox trained, never messes in the house. He enjoys the outdoors, however he doesn't stray from home. If allowed outdoors, he will lie in the sunshine and nap and then wait at the door to be let into the house. He's had all his shots, and is licensed in Los Angeles county. Interested parties please contact Diane at kirchbabe1@sbcglobal.net as soon as possible. Jet needs a new home no later than March 23rd."

The background to this cat is really sad and I'd hate to see the story end with him being euthanized. Diane lived with her aunt for the last two years of her life. When she got here, it was apparent that this cat was neglected for a good part of his life. He was filled with parasites and because Diane got him the medical attention he so badly needed, she brought him back from death's door. It was her uncle who took care of the animals, and he died in 1999. Her aunt had dementia and was completely clueless as to how to take care of her dog and cat.

After working with Jet and giving him the love and affection that he so badly needed, he's turned into such a loving feline. It breaks Diane's heart to have to part with him, but she has to move and can't take the cat with her. At this point, he's in excellent health, and for an elderly cat he's got a lot of life left in him. He hides when he wants his space as do most cats, but he's playful when he chooses to be. And, he's recently taken to joining Diane at the computer keyboard when he wants attention.

If you can give this cat a loving home for his remaining years, or know someone who can, please contact Diane at kirchbabe1@sbcglobal.net. I'm willing to facilitate a transfer to the Inland Empire or Las Vegas. Pictures of Jet may be viewed here:

http://www.photoninja.net/gallery/ElderlyCat

-Rebecca