Domestic Short Hair·2 years, 9 months·♀ Female·BlackWhite┊Spotted
Dorothea is a beautiful, gentle soul who came into rescue as a stray after bravely giving birth to four kittens in someone's garden. With male cats beginning to threaten her little family, she was brought into safety, and what a journey she's been on since! When Dorothea first went to one of our lovely fosterers back in November, she was utterly terrified. Having likely been abandoned or living feral, she had no reason to trust humans. She hissed when approached and spent her first month carefully avoiding her foster mum, hiding in the wardrobe by day and exploring only when the house was quiet at night. But here's the important part: Dorothea has never bitten or scratched, not once, even when frightened, even when being treated for fleas or having her claws trimmed. Beneath the fear has always been a soft, sweet girl who wanted to trust.
With patience, Licky Lick treats (her absolute favourite), and gentle reassurance, Dorothea began to blossom. Week by week, her confidence has grown. She now comes to the sofa for affection, purrs openly and happily, "talks" when she wants feeding or spots something exciting outside, and moans adorably if you dare to move while she's comfy. She loves belly rubs once she trusts you. She still startles at sudden movements and prefers you seated rather than walking around her, but when she feels safe, she melts into a loving, affectionate companion.
Dorothea has a big playful streak and an inquisitive nature. She must inspect your shopping, any open cupboard, the spare room, and whatever you're eating (just in case). She adores small toys she can bat, throw and "hunt" herself (mice and light balls are her favourites). Wand toys? Absolutely not. Dorothea is an independent lady who prefers solo play sessions. She famously loved the Christmas tree and would happily "redecorate" overnight. And when she enjoys her Licky Lix, she pulls the cutest little face, very much like the wide-eyed look from Shrek's Puss in Boots.
Dorothea has excellent litter habits and currently uses wood pellets in a covered tray (without a door). She is a little particular with food and simply won't eat what she doesn't like. Her preferences include:
Watching Dorothea learn to trust has been incredibly special, and her new family will experience that same joy as she continues to grow in confidence. Dorothea isn't a "walk in and instantly confident" cat. She's something much more meaningful: a cat whose love is earned, and once earned, is incredibly special. With patience and kindness, she will reward you with purrs, adorable facial expressions, sofa cuddles, and a loyal little shadow who chooses you. Could you be the safe forever home Dorothea has been waiting for?
