A sweet feline is hoping that 2024 will be his lucky year and that he’ll finally find a loving home to call his own after spending over 220 days in the care of leading animal welfare charity, Battersea, which is marking its 140th anniversary of caring for cats that deserve a second chance in life.
Paddington, an eight-year-old domestic shorthair, has now been at Battersea seven times longer than the average stay for one of the charity’s cats (28 days) and is now hoping to find that special someone who can pick up his suitcase full of feline goodies and give him a place to rest his paws.
The handsome black and white boy, who came into the charity’s care through no fault of his own, was finding life in Battersea’s London cattery a little overwhelming as staff found he was shy around new people, and he often hid away in his pen. However, after spending time with a dedicated Battersea foster carer, Paddington has slowly but surely come out of his shell and is now looking to make friends with new owners who can give him a lifetime of love.
Bridie Williams, Rehoming & Welfare Manager at the centre, said: “Paddington has a keen sense of fun and loves zooming around after his favourite ping pong ball.
“He does have a sensitive side so will need new owners who can spare the time to help him settle into new surroundings but once he gets to know you, he’ll be your best friend for life especially if you give him plenty of chin strokes!
“Paddington can be an independent gentlemen who likes being given time to keep himself amused, but he will always be up for chilling out with his favourite people in the evening to enjoy a few treats before curling up and snoozing in his favourite spot”.
Preferring to keep all the love and attention of his new owners to himself, Paddington is looking to be the only pet in his new home, and whilst he is happiest in an adult household Paddington could potentially live with older teenagers who can allow him to interact with them on his own terms.
Once settled, Paddington would like a garden of his own to play in and explore until his heart’s content.
He may not come from deepest, darkest Peru like his childrens’ literary namesake, but just like Paddington Bear he’s looking for a loving home and a family to call his own. Potential new owners who feel they can give Paddington the love that he deserves, should visit the Battersea website to find out more: https://www.battersea.org.uk/.
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For further information, images or interviews please contact press@battersea.org.uk.
Notes to editors
• At Battersea we offer our love and expert care to dogs and cats who need us by rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals at our centres, and by sharing our knowledge and resources with rescue organisations around the world. We do this because we want to help every dog and cat, everywhere.
• In 2022, Battersea directly cared for 2,278 dogs and 2,253 cats at our three centres. We also helped thousands more through our Communities programme, campaigning work, supporting other rescue centres and animal welfare advocates, and sharing knowledge and advice with pet owners.
• We’re reliant on the generosity of the public to continue to fund our vital work helping dogs and cats and the people who care for them. To donate to Battersea, visit: https://donate.battersea.org.uk.
• In addition to the site in South West London, Battersea also has two other centres based at Old Windsor, Berkshire and Brands Hatch, Kent.
• To find out more visit our website or follow Battersea on Twitter @battersea_ , Instagram @battersea or facebook.com/Battersea.