‘Sassy but sweet’ Smudge has been at RSPCA York since March

Smudge, a domestic short-haired cat, has been in the care of the RSPCA York since March 4 after her previous owner could no longer keep her.

Staff say the female neutered cat found the transition to rescue life ‘daunting and overwhelming’, and struggled to adjust to the cattery environment, causing her to become shy and withdrawn.

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To help her settle, Smudge was moved to a quieter isolation unit away from the hustle and bustle, where she has slowly begun to build confidence and come out of her shell.

The team has been working patiently to gain her trust, and Smudge is starting to show her affectionate personality.

‘Sassy but sweet’ Smudge has been at RSPCA York since March. (Image: RSPCA York)

She will now greet visitors with “sweet little chirps” although she can still become overwhelmed and will let people know when she has had enough attention.

A spokesperson said: “She enjoys gentle fuss and attention, although she still has a sassy side and isn’t afraid to let you know when she’s had enough! A little hiss, a turn of the tail, and she saunters back to bed with an almost wonderfully snobbish air.

“Smudge is a sweet girl with a sassy side, she keeps us entertained and it’s so lovely when we see her softer side as she learns to trust us. We would love to see her settled in a new loving home.”

Smudge needs a quiet and calm home. (Image: RSPCA York)

They believe she would thrive in a quiet, adult-only home where she can be the only pet and live as a permanent indoor cat.

Adopters are asked to provide her with a calm environment, including a spare room or quiet space while she settles in at her own pace.

The team say that, given time and patience, Smudge has the potential to become a loyal and loving companion.

Ruth McCabe, animal centre manager, said: “Smudge is a sweet girl with a sassy side, she keeps us entertained and it’s so lovely when we see her softer side as she learns to trust us. We would love to see her settled in a new loving home.”

Anyone interested in offering Smudge a home can find out more at rspca-yorkhome.org.uk/adopt-an-animal/smudge1/ or email reception@rspca-yorkhome.org.uk.