Gracie

I had a home. It was a good home and I was a good girl. I used my litter tray and I used the scratching post like I was supposed to. I loved my family, but I gave them a little space so they didn't always have to be playing with me or petting me. I had good social skills with people and I even liked the big dog I lived with. So what happened?

I don't understand finances or the economy or unemployment or foreclosures. All I know is that's what caused me to lose my home. Now I'm living in a shelter.

People say I'm a pretty cat and I have an exotic face and striking dark stripes. I'm very playful when I'm happy and especially like string toys. I'm still young -- I just turned two years old this month. It's not the way I wanted to spend my birthday but at least I have a place to stay for now.

Here's a video of me playing. What do you think? Can I go home with you?

Abby

I don't know why I've been at Animal Aid for so long. It's been almost 2 1/2 years. People say I'm pretty. I'm a Norwegian Forest and Maine Coon Cat mix. I'm declawed too and some people like that. But when it comes down to adopting me, no one seems to connect. I suppose there are times I don't make as good an impression as I might. Maybe another cat just pounced on me (remember I don't have claws to defend myself) and I decide I want to go somewhere to hide. Even though the volunteers try to make it feel like home at the shelter, the fact is there are 20+ other cats in the room with me.

So enough whining! Let me tell you about all my good points. I love to play. The cat dancer is my favorite. It's a wire with bits of paper at the end that moves like a fly. It's a challenging game and I like that. String toys are good too. Even though I don't have claws, I can still catch them pretty well.

And I'm affectionate too. I like to flirt and will touch your face with my paws or maybe come over close and give you a little sniff or kiss. I do a good flop-and-roll and dare you to tickle my tummy. I will make muffins for you and brush up against your legs.

Yes, I'm a bit quirky. I like to drink out of the faucet -- it tastes so much better! And I chew on plastic shopping bags. I can't tell you why I do it, but I do.

I suppose I would prefer to be an only cat, but if you already have a laid back kitty at home, we could probably work it out. But I'm scared of dogs and little kids.

So, what do you think? Would you like to adopt me?