Butter Bean On March 23, my life took a significant turn for the better! A kind lady found me as a stray cat and brought me to the HSHC. Now, I am 4-years-old and weigh 12.7 pounds. I had never met a veterinarian before. I’m just a big old tomcat with the big cheeks of a fellow who has not been neutered. I’m a brown and black tabby, and I’ve never considered myself handsome. However, when I got to this shelter, I was inundated with compliments. The interviewer lady (IL), the photo lady (PL), and the other volunteers couldn’t get over my chubby cheeks, white bib, and #2-pencil-eraser nose. It doesn’t hurt that I am loving and friendly, too. The medical staff found that I had ear infections in both ears, which were treated. My blood test also revealed I am FIV+. FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a slowly developing virus that can lower a cat's immune system. I can live a long and happy life, even with FIV- cats, with regular vet visits, a healthy diet, and an indoor-only lifestyle. The IL shared her theory about FIV+ cats with me. She had one who lived 17 years! She thinks cats who are lovers, not fighters, are the ones who contract FIV. The mean-spirited cats who bite them won’t let themselves be caught. Now, this is just her theory, but it sounds good to me. I am all about being petted, rubbed, loved on, and cherished. These are new events in my life. I want to keep them coming. My ears are now all better. I am now chomping at the bit to meet my forever family! P.S.~~I was adopted on April 6, but after only 1.5 months, my owner returned me. Her boyfriend was allergic to cats, so that’s why I’m back. She told the shelter that after I use the litter box, I can get the zoomies. I sleep a lot, and I like to lie next to my person and hang out. I have a touch of acrophobia, so climbing up a cat tree is too scary for me! I’m fond of cat beds and self-heating blankets for my snugglefests. Lickable treats are my favorite. So if you are not allergic to cats, I might be just what you need in your life! 5-18-26