Sometimes, it's not a medical condition, or a physical condition, or a behavior issue in a cat that keeps adopters at bay.  Sometimes it's...well, we're not quite sure.  Furkids currently has, and has had, many cats in our care that for some reason or another just don't get adopted.   Everyone who works or volunteers at the shelter looks at these cats and roots for them -- knowing how wonderful and sweet they are.  We are often stumped as to why no one picks them. But when they do, it's a whole different level of happiness!  To wit... Meet Ansel.  This ambassador from the planet Adorable had never had a home when he came to Furkids.  He had been a stray.  He remained under the care of Furkids for...get ready for it...eight years.  Just this past March (2011), the stars aligned in Ansel's favor and directed a very nice couple to find his picture on our website.  They adopted him so that their other cat, Snookums (aka Snookies), could have a companion. His wonderful adopters send regular updates: At first: Ansel is starting to let his guard down. He did not trust us after we had to give him medicine. But now he sleeps with us and even lets Edward pet him. His nickname is "Squeaky Rat Tail" because he squeaks instead of meows and he's got a skinny long black tail. Ansel has so many different squeaky sounds when he walks around exploring. He is enjoying having a home very much! Later: Ansel is making himself right at home. He certainly loves his red and white blanket. And he and Snookums are getting along great. The other day they spent a while zooming back and forth the apartment together. Ansel is very playful. Snookums snuggles with Ansel. Actually, he practically sits on Ansel.  Ansel is very affectionate with Snookums, always rubbing against him. They are really nice to each other. Yay! Ansel is funny. He will be asleep in another room, but then starts meowing, walks across the living room to Snookies and starts biting at Snookies' neck or romps on him.  It is strange.  Sometimes I have to intervene, but generally Snookies will swat at Ansel or jump up and walk away.  Snookies does not like it at all. Snookies is infinitely patient, but sometimes leans his weight into Ansel. That usually puts an end to Ansel's antics. They aren't aggressive with each other at all. They seem to like each other.  They groom each other and generally stick together when they are awake.  Ansel's energy makes Snookies more playful.  Ansel is a very nice little kitty. He has a lot of personality. He is starting to get used to kisses. I think he is happy. He sleeps all day and plays all evening and at night goes to bed with his family. It is a happy home. Most recent update: Ansel loves the sunshine. We have a strip of direct sunlight in our kitchen that's a favorite of the cats. He also likes to sleep underneath blankets. He has qualities that are similar to our kitty that recently passed away. Last night Ansel came to snuggle against Snookums on the bed. It was so cute. Ok, everyone.  Tag, you're it!  Time to find a "less adoptable" cat and get over here and adopt them.  Our Open House is September 24 & 25.  A perfect time to come find your Ansel, or Scooter, or Moses, or Snoop...!