Meet Maverick – looking for someone who sees the boy behind the fear
Maverick has had a difficult start to life. He came into our care as a stray after being trapped. Despite our very best efforts, life in foster care has never really suited him.
The reality is that Maverick finds confinement and people entering his space incredibly threatening. This has led to fear-based defensive behaviour, including hissing, growling and - if pushed beyond his comfort zone - attempts to lash out. We want to be completely honest about this because Maverick deserves a home that understands him, not one that expects him to be something he’s not.
The encouraging part of his story is that we know there is another side to him.
Before coming into rescue, Maverick was regularly choosing to visit a home where he appeared completely relaxed, happily sleeping on the arms of the sofas. This tells us that when he feels safe and in control of his environment, he has the potential to become a settled, domestic cat.
More recently, he has made encouraging progress in a larger foster setup with access via a cat flap to a secure outdoor area. Having the choice to move away when he feels overwhelmed has made a real difference. He now willingly approaches his feeder and is noticeably more confident, although he can still react defensively if he feels frightened.
We’re looking for a very special home for Maverick.
Ideally, he would have a spacious settling-in room where he can adjust at his own pace, rather than a small enclosure. A secure catio or safe enclosed outdoor space would be a huge bonus, allowing him the freedom to make his own choices while remaining safe, although we appreciate this may be difficult to find.
His adopter will need to be experienced with nervous or semi-feral cats, understand feline body language, and appreciate that trust cannot be rushed. Maverick doesn’t need someone to force affection on him - he needs someone patient enough to let him decide when he’s ready.
His new family will also need to be extremely careful with doors and windows during his settling-in period, as he is likely to bolt if given the opportunity.
Maverick is not the right cat for every home, and that’s perfectly okay. But we truly believe there is someone out there who will see past his fear and give him the time, space and understanding he has never really had.
Watching a cat like Maverick slowly learn that people can be trusted is one of the most rewarding journeys there is. If you think you could offer him that chance, please complete our adoption form.
