MEET BANANA BREAD! I need a home with a friendly cat to help show me I'm safe. This striking torbie lady was living outside and brought in by our Field Services Team as part of our Trap/Neuter/Return program; we call these felines Community Cats. She spent some time in one of our foster homes getting over a cold and gaining some initial social skills. During her time in foster care, she showed that she wants to connect, she’s just not quite sure how yet. She may hang back at first, watching you from a safe distance, but give her a little time (and maybe a few tasty Churus), and you’ll see her curiosity start to shine through. Wand toys are another favorite, bringing out her playful side in the sweetest, most tentative way. The key to making cats like Banana Bread comfortable in your home is patience. Community Cats usually follow the Rule of 3: it can take these cats 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to start settling in, and 3 months to feel at home and show their personality. Here are a few things you can expect from your Community Cat: *Hiding: for the best transition, we highly recommend confining your new cat to a small room or a medium/large dog crate in an active part of the home where they can learn about their new surroundings but still feel secure. A small space such as a guest room or extra bathroom are also good safe places. [We would be happy to send you home with a loaner crate, at no charge] *Transition: After living outside, being in a home can be scary to a Community Cat, so remember to be patient. *Hands-on work: Most cats love food and using stinky wet food and Churu treats is a great way for you to bond with your new cat. Using a back scratcher to pet your cat while you're giving them tasty food will help them to associate petting with good things. Engaging your new kitty in play is also and excellent way to help them forget that they were afraid in the first place. Wand toys or laser pointers are a good starting place. Banana Bread is currently up to date on all vaccinations, has been spayed, microchipped and seen by our vet team. For more information on Banana Bread or any other animal currently residing at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, please call us at 617-426-9170. We welcome adopters from NH, RI, CT, and NY. However, we will be unable to facilitate same day adoptions due to state regulated paperwork requirements.