What OUR ADOPTERS SAY

You’ve got a friend in me, them and us!

Consett Cats Rescue have made my experience adopting a scaredy feral cat, rewarding, supportive and welcoming. I was welcomed into a unique family. A massively supportive family. My experience was professional, caring and a realisation that CCR really care about each cat. Due to this, I recommended CCR to a neighbour, who also adopted. I cannot speak highly enough of CCR, their dedication and commitment to each cat and kitten. I recommend anyone wanting to adopt or foster, to fill in their questionnaire and be part of CCR!

It can seem like a big, unknown, and scary task in adopting a scaredy feral cat. Not knowing how they are going to react, how they are going to settle or cope in their new home. This can put a lot of people off. Please, please, please don’t let it put you off. There is no love like what’s in a scaredy feral cat, once they come out their shell and trust you.

For the first 2 weeks I never really saw Paddy. The odd run past, if he was caught off guard going to the litter tray, then he would hiss to remind me he was there. The odd passing in the passageway at 3am, whilst both on a toilet run. Those 2 weeks seemed like a lifetime and it will make you question everything. I kept it simple with Paddy. I used four things. Routine, always spoke to him, his safe place and the support of the CCR family.

Routine – Paddy got his food at the same time, in the same bowl and at the same time every day. Some days he didn’t eat it, others he did but he always knew it would be there when he did need it. His litter tray was never moved, and I used the same litter type.

Talking – Every time I came into the house, left the house, went into a room, left the room, I would always speak to him. I would call out his name, tell him what I was doing and asked if he was ok. This made him to quickly recognise my voice and there was no danger behind it.

Safe Place – scaredy cats love a safe place. Paddy still has them, and they are always there for him. Create a safe dark bedded area where they can go when they need to. I never chased him out or messed with his spot. This massively put him at ease.

CCR Family – there is a huge amount of experience, knowledge and love for cats and kittens in the CCR family and they are always there for advice, help or an ear to listen to. If I were unsure that him not eating for a day or 2 was normal or the hissing for 2 months was normal, I would ask! The advice and support are overwhelming, and it’ll get you through, what seems are the darkest times.

What’s the reward and outcome like? The love and friendship from a cat, an ex-scaredy cat that will last forever!

We adopted ex feral Minx aged 2 (nearly 3) from Consett Cat Rescue and I couldn't recommend them enough. When we went to meet the cats we were very welcomed by Kay who gave us all the time we needed to choose a cat and also answered all questions we had in great detail. Once we had picked Minx we arranged a day that suited for Minx to be dropped off at our home. For the 1-2 weeks Minx was so terrified she hid under the bed and if we went anywhere near her she would hiss and move away. But gradually we built her trust up by lying on the floor next to the bed talking to her, giving her treats and moving our hands closer to her until able to touch her but if she moved away or hissed we would leave her be. Once we were able to stroke Minx under the bed she started to come out but only in the bedroom till she became confident enough to venture downstairs which only took another 2 weeks. We've had Minx 7 months now and she is the softest most loving cat I've ever had she absolutely loves getting cuddles shes perfect for our little family. Thank you Consett Cat Rescue for rescuing Minx and taking the time to make sure all cats go to safe and lovely homes.

I had messaged quite a few rescue centres but found this one to be the most informative and friendly. Saw a beautiful cat on the facebook page which is updated regularly even though Kay is super busy! Communication was fantastic throughout the whole process of adopting. We visited a very scared, timid, semi feral cat who wanted nothing to do with anyone.  We decided to give her a new home. After 5 days, she relaxed but was still very wary of humans.. She was so quiet, looked so sad, flighty and would swipe and hiss. Kay said she'd probably never be a lap cat.... 6 months down the line.... We have a cheeky cat full of character and mischief! She loves fishing rods, prawns and chicken! And also partial to a few dreamies! She greets us after work, headbutts us, shows her tummy, is always purring and is very vocal. She loves a cuddle and sitting on our lap on her terms. She is just perfect.  We can't thank Kay enough for bringing this lovely furball into our lives. I would definitely recommend Consett Cat Rescue if you are looking to adopt.