*Permanent foster home needed*
Hi there, I’m Buddy, a five-year-old gentleman, expert lap-warmer, and world-class purr machine. My story didn’t start easy: I was kicked out of my home and left to fend for myself on the streets before landing on the euthanasia list at Animal Control. But just when things looked bleak, rescue stepped in and gave me a second chance. Now, every soft blanket and gentle touch feels like a gift, and I make sure to show my gratitude with head bumps, slow blinks, and my signature deep, rumbly purrs. I might be shy when we first meet but if you give me some time and gentle companionship, I'll be your best friend in no time.
I’m the perfect mix of mellow and playful: one minute I’m lounging like a furry throw pillow, the next I’m chasing a toy mouse down the hallway. My favorite place in the world is right on your lap or chest, where I can soak up love and give it right back. I adore calm, cozy spaces and would do best in a peaceful home with gentle people who appreciate a loyal companion. My favourite place in the house is the couch, and even better if we can share it together! I like to lay half in your lap and half out, so I can maximize our cuddles!
I tested positive for both Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)* (see below), which means I’ll need to be the only cat in your home, or live with another FeLV-positive kitty. But don’t worry, I feel great; I'm super healthy right now, and my rescue friends are committed to keeping me that way! I don't take any daily medications, although I do take some immune-support supplements with my dinner. Hearts to Homes is seeking a permanent foster home for me, which means no adoption fee, and they’ll cover all of my medical care for life. All I need now is someone special to share my love with. If you’ve got a warm lap, a kind heart, and space for a grateful soul, I’d be honored to be your Buddy.
Buddy has been neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites, microchipped, and health-checked by our veterinary partners. There is no adoption fee, and we are seeking a permanent foster who will give him a loving forever home while Hearts to Homes covers all medical costs for life. To apply, visit www.heartstohomes.ca/cat-adoption.
About FIV:
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a virus that affects only cats. It cannot be transmitted to humans or any other species. FIV is spread primarily through deep bite wounds, the kind that typically occur between unneutered cats fighting over territory or mates. Friendly, fixed indoor cats are extremely unlikely to transmit the virus to one another. In fact, we have many foster and adoptive homes where FIV-positive and FIV-negative cats live together peacefully without any cases of transmission.
FIV affects the immune system, which can make cats somewhat more vulnerable to common illnesses, but with attentive care, their day-to-day health needs are much the same as any other cat’s. Regular veterinary checkups, prompt care for minor infections, and an indoor lifestyle help FIV-positive cats live long, healthy, and happy lives. For most loving pet owners who already provide routine veterinary care and a safe indoor environment, there is little to no difference between caring for an FIV-positive cat and one without the virus. These cats deserve the same chance at a full and joyful life as any other feline companion.
About Feline Leukemia ("FeLV"):
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a virus that affects only cats and is spread primarily through close contact, such as mutual grooming or fighting (drawing blood). Contrary to how the name sounds, FeLV is not cancer; it is an immunosuppressive virus that can cause bone marrow issues leading to a weak immune system. Despite this, many FeLV-positive cats enjoy long, healthy, and happy lives indoors with good nutrition, regular veterinary care, and a stress-free environment.
Buddy has the regressive form of FeLV. This means his immune system has largely controlled the virus, and it is not active in his bloodstream. Cats with regressive FeLV are not considered contagious to others and can remain healthy for many years, although there is always a risk that it will reactivate in the future and cause him to develop clinical symptoms as well as making him contagious to other cats. If the virus reactivates in his bloodstream, it may shorten his lifespan; however, there are many recorded cases of cats with Regressive FeLV living totally typical lifespans! There are even documented cases of cats with regressive FeLV shedding the virus and being free of the disease after enough time in a low-stress environment where health is well-controlled.
Because FeLV can be transmitted to other cats through prolonged close contact, FeLV-positive cats should live either as the only cat in the home or with other FeLV-positive companions. With consistent care, attention, and monitoring, cats like Buddy can thrive and bring immense joy and companionship to their families.
