The so-called "unadoptable" pets are the most grateful

What should a shelter do with cats that are not cute, affectionate, or seeking the company of humans? All no-kill shelters have some cats that by definition would be considered 'unadoptable', or at best difficult to find homes for. These cats, due to mistreatment, neglect or cruelty, have grown wary and distrustful of people. Some cats just have medical issues that make them unattractive. Some are both shy and have health issues. Castaway Critters believes every single cat in our shelter has the potential to be a loving and valued companion. These cats deserve more than to be shuttled off as barn cats or to live out their lives at our cat facility. Because a few 'cat savvy' volunteers have offered to adopt them, our most challenging cats have offered us MIRACLES!

These special creatures have become the 'poster kitties' for all rescued animals. Their gratitude is expressed dramatically in the ways they have blossomed almost over night. All they needed was a chance.

Amy was abandoned at the shelter as a half-grown kitten and was always invisible, usually buried under a blanket and completely withdrawn from the other cats. While shelter staff tried to give Amy special time and treats, which she enjoyed, she continued to be withdrawn. When she was taken home by one of our volunteers and knew she was loved, safe and special, a transformation occurred and shy little Amy is now frisking around the house, playing with toys, interacting as an equal with the other household cats, and always seeking a lap to warm.



Sasha lived her first 6 years in filthy cage with no socialization. She was terrified when she came to the shelter. When it was discovered that Sasha had a severe heart murmur and spine problems, she was adopted by another volunteer. In a home full of cats it is Sasha who lights up the house! She is endlessly entertaining; playing all day long with her favorite toys and following her people wherever they go. She is totally trusting and loving. No one who meets Sasha would think she had ever known a life of such suffering.

When Billy (initially dubbed Wild Bill) was brought in to the shelter from the same situation as Sasha, he was completely wild and very aggressive. Billy could not be handled, was filthy (finally resulting in a body shave), and had horrible diarrhea. Billy severely bit several of the handlers and would slap anyone who tried to reach out to him. After several months of carefully stepped integrating processes, we discovered Billy had cataracts and greatly diminished vision. He was also diabetic. Though only 4 years old, this poor boy had suffered lifetimes. Volunteers adopted Billy and now he lives a life of comfort. He is affectionate, sweet-natured and doing great with his daily insulin and care. It took so little to win his trust!

Roxanne came to the shelter as a frightened mother with kittens and promptly took up residence in the laundry closet behind the washer and dryer. Volunteers rarely, if ever, saw her but faithfully put plates of food by the washing machine each day. Roxanne would come out to play and interact with the other cats, but wanted nothing at all to do with people. After a year and a half of this lifestyle, a soon-to-be volunteer discovered Roxanne on PetFinder and vowed "Roxanne can hide under my bed the rest of her life if she wants, but it'll be better than living behind a washer!" No need. Just a few short months later and with a lot of patience, Roxanne lives in a home among her people. She's now one of the most attention-seeking cats in residence!