So, here is the thing about Rufus – he has some quirks. He came into care from an environment with a lot of cats living together without much human contact. So, this means that he and his pal, Jamey, are both ‘under socialized’ and nervous in new situations and around new people. That said, these boys have learned so much over the past few months about living with people. After some initial time settling in, Rufus has shown he is very inquisitive and likes to explore new things and places. He takes pleasure in rooting around any and everything you may hold private and dear. Got secrets in your closet? This guy is going to find them, sniff them, and calmly move on to the next thing like he didn’t just unearth your deepest darkest secret.

Rufus likes to be in the same room as you and will follow you around the house. He also really likes to lean and weave between your legs, which is your queue, no matter what you are doing, to pick him up and snuggle him for precisely 15 seconds, put him down, rinse and repeat. It sometimes also means he doesn’t want you to do this, in which case he will squirm away from you like a Newtonian fluid giving you a look that screams “how dare you touch me with your fifthly human hands, are you insane?” – This is entirely up to you to figure out; there is no rhyme or reason.

Further to this point, this guy is a grouch when he is tired. If he is sleeping, he would very much prefer you leave him alone, please and thanks. He tells you this with a very quirky slow-motion push of your hand away and a VERY grouchy facial expression. That is unless he does want to be pet, in which case he still gives you bombastic side eye for a few seconds before resting his head back down again and settling into what can only be interpreted as contentment, we think?
Rufus has asthma, which is often linked to airborne allergens in cats. And believe it or not, this means he gets his medicine through a special kitty puffer! Rufus’ foster mom has been working with him on cooperative care, a positive reinforcement-based training approach where pets are trained to actively and voluntarily participate in their own care routines, rather than being physically restrained or forced. Because of this, Rufus takes his puffer willingly, with some encouragement, in the form of Churu treats, twice daily.

Here is the thing though, through all of this very hot and cold behaviour, you will find yourself falling deeply in love with the moments where he rests his little head on your shoulder while you hold him, and the little squawks he makes while you prep his breakfast, his uncoordinated and awkward attempts to play, and how calmly and respectfully he sits and take his little puffer like a champ.
And if you’re thinking, okay, but I also want a cat that like to be pet and cuddled – don’t worry! This guy comes with an absolute cutey patootie who is the playful, affectionate little sweet heart – Jamey!

Rufus may not be the boldest cat in the room, but with time and understanding, he has the potential to build deep trust with his people ❤️. For someone willing to offer patience and compassion, helping Rufus grow in confidence will be an incredibly meaningful journey.

If you’re ready to give Rufus and Jamie the safe, loving home they deserve, they’re waiting to start that journey with you 🐱🐱💕.