Older cat in need of home, extra care

Don’t Go Astray is putting the call out to help find tom cat Richard a forever home.

Previously being a stray with nowhere to call home, Richard contracted feline immunodeficiency virus, known as FIV or feline AIDS.

The disease is not fatal — Richard will just need to have regular veterinary visits.

He may get a runny nose now and then as he has a lower immune system than other cats.

Around 4 per cent of cats contract FIV due to cat fights (through scratches and blood) and through saliva.

However, Richard can still live a happy, normal life. He just needs to be kept inside at all times and to be the only cat in the family.

Estimated to be about five years old, Richard has been sterilised, vaccinated and microchipped.

Don’t Go Astray founder Kylie Soanes said Richard was a cat that loved affection, and the organisation wanted to try to find him a home.

His adoption fee is $150. Those interested in adopting Richard are asked to contact dga@dontgoastray. org.