While the devastating Eaton fires were finally being extinguished, rescues were flooded with animals needing care. And these were family pets, strays and feral homeless animals. Given everything they needed to heal, the lucky souls were welcomed back home or put up for adoption. For one very fluffy grey boy named Art, he went from a street life to being adopted and welcomed inside. Finally safe and well fed, his purrsonality began to show. But it wasn’t exactly the ideal home. 
Because Art was returned to the shelter for being “too needy”.
The team at Pasadena Humane was heartbroken to see him back in the shelter. Although, it’s a better outcome that him being dumped so kudos to his first adopter for that. But being ‘too needy’ sadly isn’t a new problem for some adopters. The shelter explained to the local KTLA news how Art had gotten to this point.
“He was pretty feisty when he got here, which made us think he may have been a ‘community cat’ versus an owned pet cat,” Kevin McManus, communications director for Pasadena Humane, said. “A lot of community cats are comfortable with people when it’s on their terms. This is what we felt Art’s vibe was, too.”
Photo: KTLA.com per Pasadena Humane
When no owners stepped forward to claim him, Art remained at the shelter for about 3 months. It was then that he finally found a welcoming home to the relief of the staff. And what the owner did was right; they gave him at least 3 months to acclimate to his new life. But sadly, it wasn’t the right fit for Art.
The adopter was looking for a more calm cat, and Art is more high energy with his affection. He enjoys being pet on his head and chin, but can get overstimulated if he gets too much petting and needs a break, but still likes to be close to people. Art’s adopter realized that they weren’t the right match for him, and we are grateful that they made the decision to return him to us so we can focus on finding him his perfect home! There are plenty of cats out there with different personalities who could be a better match for Art’s previous adopter. We are glad that there are people out there who will adopt our more reserved cats, as they are often overlooked.
Photo: KTLA.com per Pasadena Humane
His sad tale was shared on their social media pages where it quickly went viral.
With an almost deep sadness behind his eyes, the fluffy gray boy sat alone in his cage. Back at the shelter now after experiencing indoor life. And he deserved every minute of being safe, loved and carefree. Someone would surely see that. And someone quickly did!
Art (A519958) was returned to the shelter for being too needy. But we know that’s actually a positive trait to a lot of adopters! If you’re looking for a Velcro kitty who always wants to be the center of attention (and will show off his perfectly fluffy belly to make sure that happens), seven-year-old Art is probably the cat for you!
For Kiri Celiceo and her husband, it was love at first sight. So they leapt into action and literally adopted him the very next day! What a wonderful outcome for them all.
When my husband and I saw this post we knew straight away we had to take Art home. I’ve had cats all my life and have been without one for a couple of years so it was high time to welcome a new one into our lives.
Photo: Kiri Celiceo
He’s settling in extremely well and we are so happy to give him all the loving he wants/needs.
Photo: Kiri Celiceo – King Arthur’s Throne
They also happily acquiesced to the followers who had cheered Art on from afar.
There has been a good amount of people who have reached out to get updates on Art, who we now call Arthur. My husband started an Instagram page for him for those of you who’d like casual updates. His Instagram is @kingarthurpenkitten
Photo: Kiri Celiceo
Photo: Instagram @kingarthurpenkitten – Per Kiri “He very much enjoys resting in places that makes keeping everyone in sight easier. (He does not like hanging out in rooms where there is no people.) He’s also super talkative. I wonder if that constitutes as “needy?” We see it as loving. 😋🥰”
Be sure to follow him on his new journey and thank you as always to Pasadena Humane for their dedication!
