Submitted by Amy Gooden of Animal Anti-Cruelty League – Durban & Pietermaritzburg
Photography supplied by Michelle Dennis
Not every story at Animal Anti-Cruelty League – Durban & Pietermaritzburg begins with loss or rescue. Some begin with a promise to keep a family safe – just for a little while.
These ginger brothers arrived in December 2024 alongside their mom, Ruby, under unusual circumstances. They weren’t rescues, nor were they surrendered. Instead, their owner faced a temporary move overseas and, wanting the very best for them, asked if they could stay with us in the Cat Haven rather than in a cattery. It was meant to be a short chapter – just one year until a joyful reunion.
Exploring the Cat Haven
From the moment that they arrived, Roary and Cheeto made themselves at home. Curious, playful, and inseparable, the two explored every corner of the Cat Haven together. Wherever one went, the other followed.
As the months passed, we all began counting down to December 2025, excited for the day that this little family would be whole again. But life had other plans. When news came that their owner’s contract had been extended indefinitely, a difficult and deeply selfless decision was made: To put all three cats up for adoption, giving them the chance to settle into permanent, loving homes rather than wait in uncertainty.
The wait for the ideal home
It wasn’t easy for us to say goodbye to the future that we’d imagined for them, but it made us determined to find them the happiness that they deserved. Ruby was adopted quickly, but Roary and Cheeto remained. We knew that they had to stay together; separating them was never an option. Still, we wondered how long it might take to find someone willing to open their heart and home to two young cats, rather than just one.
And then, Michelle Dennis came along. Initially enquiring about another cat, Michelle mentioned that she had a soft spot for fluffier felines, which immediately brought Roary and Cheeto to mind. When we suggested the bonded pair, we weren’t sure what to expect. But without hesitation, Michelle was open to the idea, and soon after, she welcomed both boys into her home.
Finally, a home. Together forever
Having known the comfort of a home before, Roary and Cheeto settled in beautifully. Together – just as they’ve always been. Today, they’re safe, loved, and exactly where they’re meant to be. They may not have returned to the life that they once knew, but Roary and Cheeto didn’t lose what mattered most. They still have each other, and now they have a home that’s made space for them both.
TWO CATS IN THE CRADLE
Home at last for a “purrfect” pair
Written by Michelle Dennis
It was pure ginger joy. Two pairs of enquiring eyes gazed at me before the fluffy nuzzling, head-butting, rubbing against my legs, nose touches, and purring began. And, just like that, the connection was sealed, and Roary and Cheeto, the two AACL cats, and I were family.
Life throws up some challenging circumstances, and having navigated retrenchment, my husband’s death, a new home, a pivot to freelancing, and the death of my beloved cat at the hands of a psychotic neighbour, I settled down. However, something was missing.
“It’s time,” said my eldest daughter.
“Definitely,” said her younger sister.
“Mom, get a cat.”
I was mired in the type of elusive loneliness that mere humans cannot fill. It was the proverbial eureka moment, and I didn’t need any more prompting.
A website search led me to the AACL Durban & Pietermaritzburg Facebook page. I spotted a black cat in need of a home and emailed them. A delightful Amy Gooden replied and said the cat had just been adopted. I told Amy I was open to adopting a young adult cat and favoured fluffy cats. The fact that I have long, curly hair, which is a bit on the wild side, might explain this preference.
Professional adoption process
Soon after, Amy sent info and photos of the “Brothers Ginge”, and I was seduced. Separating them wasn’t an option, and to prevent that fate, I offered to adopt them both.
The entire adoption process was remarkably smooth and professionally handled. Roary and Cheeto had been neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and dewormed. After a home visit, forms were completed, and payment made, the adoption day was set.
Amy kindly delivered Roary and Cheeto, armed with a gift bag containing toys, wet food sachets, microchip certificates, pamphlets and vaccination cards with the date of their next vaccination highlighted. Like I said, so organised. This was followed up by emails which included the receipt of payment, a note of thanks, a request for photos and a progress report.
Let the games begin
A relatively pristine home was transformed into a more cat-friendly environment. The 60/Sixty packets and boxes were strewn around, and the floor was dotted with toys, bowls and litter boxes.
The cats adapted quickly. After a sojourn in my room, they embarked on a smell-test tour of the rest of their new home, tried out some cosy places to nap, and seemed satisfied with the new digs. They observed my movements with interest. One day, I was busy sewing and looked up to find both Roary and Cheeto staring up at me with puzzled expressions. The whirr and clack of the sewing machine had obviously attracted them.
On another day, Roary proudly displayed a plant he’d “caught”. (One must ensure house plants are non-poisonous for cats). Emboldened by this success, the next day he snared one of the free-range geckos. Cheeto, meanwhile, chose to squirm and investigate impossibly small nooks and high surfaces.
They talk, “fur” real!
Roary and Cheeto have high meows. I pay attention to the different tones and volumes, which could indicate anything from excitement to frustration.
Like humans, cats’ personalities are distinct and are shaped by genetics, early socialisation and environment. The more attention and time you give them, they reward you with affection, revealing more quirky characteristics and even expressions of humour.
I particularly chose to adopt adult cats as kittens are generally favoured. I wanted an immediate deep bond. I wished to provide a home to cats who’d lost theirs. For me, a home isn’t a home without a cat or two draped over a couch, or sprawled on a mat, in a patch of sun, in pure bliss.
Find your cat-match
Adopting a pet is a commitment and a responsibility. It’s one of the most rewarding choices, and in rescuing them, you’re also rescued. There are many still waiting, still hoping for a kind person to take them to a home of their own to preside over.
I, for one, have been well and truly gingered.
