POLLY

Polly is a lovely older cat who knows exactly what she likes, what she doesn't, and how she prefers to spend her days. She's not the sort of girl who demands constant attention or follows everyone around looking for cuddles. Instead, she appreciates having her own space, enjoying her surroundings, and choosing when she'd like a little affection. For someone who appreciates a cat with a strong sense of independence, Polly could be an absolutely delightful companion.

Although she's confident around unfamiliar people and doesn't generally hide when visitors arrive, she's not particularly interested in making friends with everyone she meets. She's perfectly content carrying on with her own business. With her foster carer, however, Polly has developed a wonderfully affectionate relationship. Sometimes all it takes is a glance in her direction to get her purring, and there are occasions when she'll actively seek out a cuddle.

The important thing to understand is that Polly likes to initiate these interactions herself. She isn't particularly interested in being fussed over when she'd rather be left alone, and she may offer a gentle bat with her claws retracted if someone doesn't recognise that she's had enough. Her foster carer describes her as a very funny, confident girl who is an absolute delight once you understand her personality.

Polly has also made remarkable progress during her time in foster care. When she first arrived, she was uncomfortable having certain areas touched, particularly around her ears and the base of her tail. She could also become defensive if someone approached while she was eating. Those concerns have now resolved, and her foster carer describes her as a completely different cat. She's become much more comfortable being handled, is considerably more relaxed, and enjoys a lovely relationship with the people she trusts. Her old nickname, Polly Savage, is well and truly in her past.

Although Polly is happy living alongside other cats, she's not particularly interested in becoming everyone's best friend. She currently shares her home with several resident cats and is comfortable relaxing on the bed while they're nearby, although she'll generally choose her own little spot. She previously struggled to understand the behaviour of a blind resident cat, occasionally hissing and retreating when the other cat accidentally bumped into her. She never attacked, but the experience demonstrated that Polly is happiest around animals who can recognise and respect her boundaries. We feel she'd be well suited to living with other calm, independent cats who won't overwhelm her. Boisterous kittens, highly energetic cats, or animals who repeatedly invade her personal space would not be appropriate. Polly hasn't been tested with dogs. Her foster carer feels she may be capable of living with a calm, respectful dog, but this would require careful consideration and introductions.

A peaceful household is particularly important for Polly. She wouldn't enjoy a busy home with lots of noise, unpredictable activity, or people constantly expecting interaction. She could live with older, respectful children who understand feline body language and are happy to let her approach them when she wants attention. Young or boisterous children wouldn't be suitable.

Polly is also perfectly comfortable spending time alone and could suit someone who works full-time or has a relatively busy routine outside the home. In fact, giving her space often encourages her to relax and become more affectionate when her humans return.

She's moderately active and is perfectly content living indoors. She currently shows little interest in going outside, so an indoor-only home with appropriate enrichment would suit her well. If outdoor access were offered, we'd favour a secure garden or an exceptionally quiet location. Her foster carer has concerns about her awareness of potential hazards, particularly around roads, unfamiliar cats, and wildlife, so unrestricted access in a busy environment wouldn't be suitable.

Polly currently experiences some irritation around her chin, which has been managed successfully through good hygiene and avoiding plastic food bowls.

Ultimately, Polly is a lovely, individual little character who doesn't need constant entertainment or affection to be happy. She simply wants a peaceful home, a comfortable place to relax, and people who appreciate that the best relationships are built on mutual respect.

Give Polly the freedom to be herself, and you'll discover a funny, affectionate, and wonderfully rewarding companion.