My name is Dart!

Dart
I was 10-years-old when I was found roaming around the Nickel Plate Trail in June. My finder brought me to the HSHC, and my latest adventure began. I have been on my own since kittenhood, probably orphaned, without learning the social behaviors my mother would have taught me. I have relied on my predatory skills to find food, shelter, and entertainment. Generally, being a stray is a full-time job. Upon arriving at HSHC, I was given a medical exam, which revealed a severe mouth infection. I had several teeth removed, and I was neutered! They also discovered I am FIV+.* Can you blame me if I had difficulty relaxing and enjoying all this human attention? I got adopted in August, and my owners never quite figured me out. They didn`t like it when I would dart out the front door and hang out on the front porch, even though it was always easy to pick me up and get me back inside. They said I was very affectionate and loved petting and cuddling, but I didn`t enjoy being held for a long time. I genuinely like being around my people and will follow them around the house. But the thing that caused them to return me after two months was my need for stimulation! As I said, cats have a natural need for predatory play, and if they don`t have these needs met, they will seek their own fun by stalking and chasing their humans. When the HSHC staff asked if we spent time together playing interactive games with laser pointers, chase toys, or fishing poles with feathered toys on strings, they said they didn`t have time for this. So I am back at the shelter waiting for the right person to see my good qualities. The interviewer lady thinks I`m terrific! I am a loving boy, just a little rough around the edges. Everyone in my home should be 16 or older. If you DO have time to play with me, I will be your very best pal. 11-12-24

*[FIV is a virus found only in cats that can lower a cat`s immune system. I can live a long, happy life [even with FIV- cats] with regular vet visits, a healthy diet, and an indoor-only lifestyle.]