Rufous

My story

Hi, I’m Rufous- a very lucky cat. You might know me as "Flash," but I’ve been renamed in honor of my new beginning. Rufous suits me, don’t you think? I have a pretty incredible story. I used to have a home. I was an indoor-outdoor cat, the kind who always found his way back… until one day, I didn’t. Something scared me, I ran too far, and no matter how hard I searched, I just couldn’t find my way back. Some kind people brought me to a shelter. It wasn’t home — but it had food, water, a litter box, and just enough space to curl up and wait. I was sure my humans would come for me. You can even see it in my shelter photo. Despite having nothing but a small cage, I was content and hopeful. Days turned into weeks. The people there were kind. They cleaned my box and gave me gentle pets, even when I was too sad to play. My muscles started to shrink because I didn't have room to walk or play, but my heart stayed as big as ever and I never got tired of smiling. I believed someone was coming to take me home. I thought my humans must be looking for me. I was patient. I had no choice. After a few weeks, I started hearing the word “urgent.” I thought it meant, “Finally! My family’s coming!” But there seemede to be some serious around this word and people looked worried. I found out a wonderful lady named CJ placed a “hold” on me so the shelter could keep me a little longer. I didn't want to wait longer to see my humans, but if the shelter staff couldn't bear to see me go, I didn't want to disappoint them. I just waited. And waited. Then came the night before what they called “my final day.” I didn’t understand why the volunteers were so sad. I thought they were just going to miss me when I finally went home. I couldn’t sleep that night. I was too excited. The next morning, I was brought to the medical room. A nice vet touched me all over and even looked in my mouth. They said I looked healthy. Then I was passed to a kind woman named Jerry, who told me I mattered. I felt it. Even though I didn’t know what was going on, I knew something important had happened and I thought my humans would be there any minute, too. Soon after, another beautiful person named Holly came to take me home — not my old home, but a home. She and her little boy welcomed me with open arms. I thought, “Oh good! They’ll help me find my person.” They gave me a room to play in, way better, food and my very own toys. I had missed this level of comfort so much and I was so relieved to have people to snuggle with again. Since I have been here for a few days, I'm beginning to understand that may never get to go home. My people must be looking for me but they must be lost, too. I can't keep waiting for them. I have to start a new life in a new home, that won't let me get lost again. I am too trusting, and to be honest, not smart enough to be outside. I would love to have an indoor home as my forever home. As for my humans, I hope that they get found by a good cat and won't lose that one. I know they loved me so much and they will love a new cat, too. So now, I’m here in foster care. I’ve started hoping again — not for my old life, but for the next chapter. I’m a sweet, gentle boy. I like when you talk to me and I will follow you around, and be part of your feline entourage or I can be your life coach or mentor if you'll allow it. I'm very good at positivity! I’m the kind of cat who makes eye contact when you talk, like I understand every word (and sometimes, I think I do). I’ve seen the worst days, and I never gave up. I know miracles happen. And I believe my forever person is going to find me and know right away they want to adopt me. Could that be you?

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Rufous, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.