Pippa

Pippa is ready for a fresh start. At around 18 months old, Pippa has already raised at least two litters of kittens while living as a stray. Now she and her kittens are safe in foster care with Team Cat Rescue, and it’s Pippa’s turn to be looked after. Her rescue began with a chance conversation at our fundraising table at the Swan Shopping Centre in Yardley. A gentleman told Lynne about a friendly stray he had been feeding, along with her young kittens. Over the next few days, Lynne worked with him to bring the kittens to safety, but their mum proved harder to persuade. Lynne left a carrier with him, planning to return the following day for another attempt. Pippa, however, had her own timetable. The next day, she walked into the gentleman’s kitchen, where he managed to get her safely into the carrier and take her to the vets we use. His kindness and practical help made all the difference to this little family. Pippa’s first couple of days in foster care have involved finding good hiding places and eating with impressive enthusiasm. She is very thin and a little grubby, and understandably needs time to feel safe. But the affectionate cat beneath the worry is already making herself known. After venturing out in the early hours and calling out, possibly for her kittens or simply through uncertainty, Pippa decided that 2am was an excellent time for strokes, purring and headbutts. Her fosterer may have preferred an appointment during office hours, but it was lovely to see her asking for affection. She has since emerged for a brief photo session before returning to the security of the sofa. For now, she is taking things at her own pace, with encouraging glimpses of a very friendly cat who wants human company. Pippa needs a patient home where she can settle without pressure, build her confidence and enjoy some much-needed care. Her fosterer’s early impression is of an affectionate young cat who is frightened and confused by recent changes, rather than a cat unused to people. She has had a vet check, is microchipped, has received flea and worm treatment, and started her vaccinations. She will be spayed before adoption, so her kitten-raising days are firmly behind her. A little patience now could mean a great deal to this young cat.