In animal shelters across Melbourne, dozens of cats sit quietly behind glass, waiting.
While playful kittens often steal hearts within minutes, their older or more reserved counterparts are too often left behind.
“Shy cats often get passed by—they may take time to build trust, and in a shelter setting, that can make them less noticeable to visitors,” Suzana Talevski, spokeswoman for Lort Smith Animal Hospital said.
“Older cats are also frequently overlooked.”
Many adopters come in with a clear picture of what they want: a bright-eyed, energetic kitten.
But the reality is, not all cats fit that mold.
“These cats may not jump out at you immediately, but they’re just as deserving—and can become incredibly loving, loyal companions,” Ms Talevski said.
“Once they warm up to you, that connection is incredibly special.”
To support cats who stay longer in care, Lort Smith provides a wide range of enrichment activities aimed at keeping them mentally and emotionally engaged.
“We make sure our animals are stimulated, loved, and cared for no matter how long they stay,” Ms Talevski said.
“Playtime with volunteers, interactive toys, even iPads with fish or butterfly videos for the cats!”
Foster care is another key part of that support system.
“Stints with our loving foster carers are just one of the ways we make sure they don’t miss out on being just a regular cat,” Ms Talevski said.
“Sometimes those carers fall in love and can’t part with them—those are the best endings.”
Senior and shy cats may not always stand out—but with time, they often shine the brightest.
So what makes an ideal home for a long-term shelter cat?
“They need someone patient, someone who’s in it for the long haul,” Ms Talevski said.
“They may not be the first to run up to you—but once they do, the bond is unbreakable.”
