Deaf cat in search of fresh start
Deaf tabby Dash is yearning for a loving home to call his own this Christmas after spending more than six months with Blue Cross.
The striking two-year-old has blossomed with the dedicated team at our Southampton rehoming centre.
Arriving in our care with an open leg wound needing vet care, along with routine vaccinations, flea and worming treatments, Dash has come a long way.
Being deaf means Dash “startles quite easily”, explains Blue Cross Rehoming Supervisor Kirsty Smith.
But lots of careful handling, playing with his favourite rod toys and tasty treats of fresh chicken mean Dash can relax.
Like many cats in our care, Dash came from a home that could no longer keep him amid the rising cost of living.
Being with Blue Cross for almost 200 days now, the inquisitive and playful tabby is ready to make the leap into a new home.
“Dash is looking for a special home, being deaf,” says Jo Newcombe, Animal Welfare Assistant at Blue Cross Southampton.
“He would need access to a safe and secure garden, away from busy roads. It would be important that he is settled in his new home before exploring the outside.”
As deaf cats like Dash can be more wary, Jo has a few tips for helping them to feel confident.
Approaching from angles where they can see you and announcing your presence, such as opening and closing a door or firmly tapping your foot when nearby, can help to avoid startling a deaf pet. This is because they still detect the vibrations which will gently wake them or get their attention.
“They will take longer to adapt to environments and will generally be more wary and can be startled easily,” Jo says.
She continues: “It has taken a long time to gain his trust, however, now Dash lets me stroke him and give him gentle chin scratches. On occasion he will rub into my hand – it has taken several months to get to this stage, but he seems to enjoy this.”
Jo adds: “Dash is incredibly playful, and this is the way to his heart. He is a real character and there is never a dull moment with him”.
Could you have the perfect home for our dashing Dash? Find out more about him.
