Squatters are every homeowner’s nightmare but what do you do if you move into a new home and find it is already occupied… by a cat?
That’s exactly what happened to one Norwich family, who found a black cat living in a kitchen cupboard at their house just before Christmas
It is thought the young animal, who has since been named Mistletoe, was left behind by the property’s previous occupants.
Unable to keep Mistletoe, due to already owning dogs, the family called the RSPCA who promptly came to rescue her.
RSPCA Inspector Amy Pellegrini, who collected Mistletoe on December 17, said: ‘The new homeowners really weren’t expecting to find a cat in their kitchen cupboard when they moved in.
‘They must’ve had quite the surprise!
‘They were worried as they have dogs of their own and they didn’t want to frighten Mistletoe any more than she must’ve been already.
‘I went there to help, pick her up and take her to be checked over.
‘She was such a sweet thing. I named her Mistletoe because she was found just before Christmas.
‘I took her to the vets and thankfully she was in good health – and absolutely lovely.’
After her check-up Mistletoe was moved to RSPCA Mid Norfolk and North Suffolk Branch for further care.
Charlotte Billington, animal welfare officer at the branch, said since arriving, Mistletoe had settled into the centre well.
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‘She is a gorgeous little cat who just loves a fuss and really loves her soft snuggle bed,’ she said.
‘She will make someone out there a wonderful pet and will be available for rehoming in the coming weeks.’
Anyone who is interested in offering Mistletoe a long-term home can contact woof@rspcanorwich.org or call 0303 040 1565.
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