THE RSPCA in Oldham has launched a desperate appeal to find its “longest staying cat” a forever home.

Not a single member of the public has shown an interest in Reuben, a shorthaired crossbreed, since he became available for adoption six months ago.

The black and white cat, who is around 18 months old and neutered, is reportedly being overlooked due to being a cat flu carrier.

The Oldham Times:

Reuben has blossomed at the RSPCA centre 

Lisa Walsh, the deputy animal centre manager at RSPCA Oldham, said: “Reuben hasn’t had the best start in life and the other two cats he came in with have found their forever home.

“As the longest stay cat in our cattery, Reuben is desperately searching for a home to call his own.

"Reuben has been with us for the past six months and although he was extremely nervous when he first came in, he has blossomed into a cheeky young man around the people who have been caring for him.”

She added: “When you spend time with Reuben, he shows you what a loveable boy he really is, purring away, head bumping and rolling around while you shower him with attention.”

The Oldham Times:

Reuben loves to play. 

On first arrival at the centre Reuben tended to hide but “has come on leaps and bounds” after the staff used his love of treats to gain his confidence.

Reuben loves to play and the staff often hear him dancing around in his pen with his toys. He particularly enjoys a chaser toy, a good roll around in catnip, and watching the leaves blow about in the wind outside.

The team at the RSPCA are looking for a “quiet home” for Reuben, where any children are over 13 years old, and he can take his time gaining trust in people.

As Reuben suffers with cat flu, which may flare up again, he will need to be the only pet in the home.

Reuben’s ears are also a little worse for wear and need to be cleaned and checked by a vet regularly.

For more information visit the RSPCA website.