London cat Bugsy waits 250 days for a forever home at Battersea
London cat Bugsy waits 250 days for a forever home

Bugsy, a nine-year-old domestic shorthair cat at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, has been waiting for a new home for more than 250 days, making him one of the centre's most 'unwanted' animals. He arrived as a stray in December and has now waited over eight times longer than the average cat at the centre.

Affectionate and playful despite the wait

Staff describe Bugsy as "incredibly affectionate," noting he delights in welcoming familiar faces with a gentle head bump or settling in for a chin rub. Despite his age, he has retained a mischievous, playful streak, enjoying chasing string toys, investigating cardboard boxes, and finding entertaining ways to keep himself occupied.

He is equally content snuggled on a warm lap for an afternoon nap, making him an ideal blend of spirited and cuddly. Staff insist the lengthy wait has done nothing to diminish his warm and loving nature.

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Hope for a happy ending

Battersea staff are eagerly hoping Bugsy's 250-day vigil will soon draw to a close, allowing someone to offer him the opportunity to demonstrate what a wonderful companion he can be. Having spent so long watching other cats depart to new homes, Bugsy deserves a loving family where he can enjoy his golden years in warmth and comfort.

How to rehome Bugsy

Anyone interested in rehoming Bugsy can register their interest with Battersea's rehoming team by emailing cat.rehoming@battersea.org.uk or visiting Battersea's website. The initial step is to register details through Battersea's online form, which asks about living arrangements, lifestyle, and what you're seeking in a pet.

Registration is not an application for a specific cat; Battersea uses over 160 years of experience to match people with the pet that best fits their circumstances. After completing the form, you'll receive a confirmation email, and the team will start searching for the right match. If no match is found within three months, they'll provide guidance on continuing the search.

If a potential match is found, Battersea will arrange a call with a rehoming specialist, followed by a meeting with the cat. Battersea offers guidance throughout the rehoming process to help new feline friends settle comfortably into their new environment.

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