Transformed Hereford cat needs new home after living outside for two years

A transformed cat who missed out on home comforts and suffered from a lack of vet care for two years after his family had a baby is now in need of a new home.

Five-year-old black and white Gremlin arrived at Cats Protection's Hereford Adoption centre in June, covered in scabs from his painful, itchy skin.  He had been living outside for the past two years because he did not get on with his family's new baby.

The friendly fuss-loving moggie had not received regular veterinary care and so his skin had become painful and infected as a result of fleas and stress.

Gremlin has needed a lot of care and medication to heal his skin and he will now need a daily tablet, which he takes easily, to keep his skin healthy.

Adoption centre manager Faye Churchill explains: "We are really glad that Gremlin's family realised he needed help and brought him to us. We know how difficult it can be when a new member of the family arrives.

"There are many ways to help a cat get ready for having a new baby around such as playing baby sounds so the new noises are not a shock and ensuring any new equipment for the baby arrives in the house in plenty of time so the cat can become accustomed to it and learn not to climb on it. It's even possible to take items the new baby has worn in hospital home to the cat before baby arrives to ensure the smells are familiar.

"Gremlin is a gorgeous cat who is very affectionate and loves company. He is also very clever and has easily solved every puzzle feeder we have offered him!  His loving, curious and interactive nature means he will make an excellent companion who can live with adults, children and other cats but after his previous experience he would rather not have to live with another baby."

For more information about introducing babies to cats visit www.cats.org.uk/cats-and-babies for guidance throughout pregnancy and babyhood.

Anyone wishing to give Gremlin a loving home should contact the centre on 01432 277 543 or visit www.cats.org.uk/hereford