Rescued Cat Who Has No Ears Finds Love In A Home Full Of Special Needs Cats Just Like Him
There is a place in Arlington, Washington, called the Cat Cafe, which is dedicated to caring for every cat that crosses its path. They are a no-kill shelter, eager to take in kitties that other shelters might consider "unadoptable." According to Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher, "Animals can provide emotional support and companionship, which is especially vital for those who feel isolated." This sanctuary offers a safe haven for felines who are old, sick, or antisocial to relax and wait for their forever homes, no matter how long it may take. Pika found his way to this sanctuary after being spotted as a stray cat living outside under a shed.
He clearly needed medical attention, and the family who discovered him took him to a vet, aiming to help him recover and find a loving home. Unfortunately, Pika lost his ears due to a skin condition, but his ability to hear remained intact.
The family that rescued him attempted to integrate him into their household, but they soon realized that Pika was fearful of their dogs. Recognizing that their home wasn't the best fit for him, they brought him to the Cat Cafe, where they knew he would be given a fair chance to find the right family.
Meet the Cat, Pika!
Pika was indeed a sweet and loving boy, enchanting the workers and staff at the sanctuary with his affectionate character. Even though some might see him as "broken" because of his ears, he quickly became a favorite among those who had the pleasure of interacting with him.
Pika Lost His Ears to a Skin Issue, but His Sense of Hearing Wasn’t Affected.
This same place is where Pika met Jane, a volunteer with a soft spot for felines who need additional medical attention. Jane had already taken in some cats requiring special care from Purrfect Pals.
Some of these cats include Lefty, who is partially blind; Chrissy Lee, who has corneal herpes; and Freckles, who suffers from stomatitis.
This Same Place Is Where Pika Met His Foster Mom, Jane
Through other volunteers, Jane learned about Pika, and when she met him, she knew she wanted him to come home with her! Pika took some time to adjust to his new home.
“We have an integration system in our house that involves gates and gated rooms… He was fine in his gated room, but loud noises definitely scared him. I’m not sure if he hears differently without most of his ears or if it was because he’s new or still getting used to not being a stray…”
“For over a week, he was content in that room, then one day he decided to follow me out, so I allowed him out… It was on his timeframe, and I’d say he was easier than most to integrate. He immediately became very playful and loved carrying around a fuzzy cat toy in his mouth,” Jane says.
Jane Definitely Knew She Wanted Him to Come Home with Her!
At first, Jane was concerned that Pika might not fit in with the rest of her cat family, as she said:
“I think Pika prefers our mostly blind cat, though he doesn’t seem to care one way or the other unless they are bothering him… Lefty is completely harmless and non-territorial or aggressive. He’s goofy and just wants to play. I’ve seen them all sleep right near Pika at various times. He doesn’t initiate it, but he doesn’t seem bothered.”
“When I adopted him, I realized that there was a risk, but there is a risk with all cats. He deserved a home with a warm bed and people to care for him. So – we’ll just do the best we can. We have awesome vets and will make his life the best we can.”
Pika Has Finally Found His Happy Place
Pika is still taking his sweet time to familiarize himself with his new family, but Jane says she sees other felines checking out their newest addition. What are your thoughts about Pika?
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