Is Rita a longhaired, bobtailed calico cat, or is she an Australian Shepherd in disguise? Rita is a beautiful blazed redhead with a delicate face, and always wears what appear to be black opera gloves with immaculate white fingertips. But from the back, she has the coloring and perky bobtail of an Aussie. And when she is happy, she wags her little tail just like a dog! (See her video for details about that.)
We guess Rita's age about five years. She was left at a veterinary hospital by a Good Samaritan, and had obviously been living in poor conditions recently. But her overall health was good, her attitude is wonderful, and she has quickly learned to love the indoor life, with soft beds and regular meals. She's returned to normal weight, grown a lush, lovely coat and is now ready for her closeup -- and her perfect, permanent home.
Rita's personality is also a mix of cat and dog qualities. She's very playful and absolutely loves her toys. She can entertain herself quietly for long periods, but she's always glad to see her people come home, because it's even more fun when there's somebody else to play with. Rita enjoys some warm, purry lap time but she's not clingy or demanding about it. Sometimes she just wants to be close, and curl up at your feet like a loyal dog. If a dog could purr.
Rita is a very easy cat to live with. She doesn't scratch the furniture (as long as there is are cardboard scratchers available) and she doesn't mind having her nails trimmed. Her coat is long, but doesn't mat or shed badly, and she enjoys being combed, so a brief bit of daily maintenance will keep her looking good.
She has excellent litterbox habits, and no food issues. She is tolerant of other cats, but doesn't seem to need a cat buddy to be happy, and probably would prefer to be the only cat, given the choice. Since she doesn't care much for being picked up and carried around, a family without very young children will suit her best. We're not sure about her experience with dogs, but we suspect she could live with a dog who understands that cats must rule.
Rita, like all ARCF cats for adoption, has been spayed, microchipped, is up to date on vaccines, and has tested negative for FeLV and FIV.
If you are interested in meeting Rita, please fill out the
"I'm interested" form at our website, and our adoption coordinator will respond promptly. Please note that we place cats in the following counties only: Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas and Clark.
Animal Rescue & Care Fund, Inc. is a small rescue organization. We rescue homeless animals only, and do not accept owner-surrendered pets. All our animals live with volunteers in their homes until they are matched with the right permanent family. Thank you for considering one of our pets for adoption.
