The one-cat welcoming committee

Kenneth is a cat’s cat. As such, he has appointed himself the one‑cat welcoming committee for new cats who arrive at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, ensuring that every newcomer settles in just fine.

Since Kenneth came to the Sanctuary among a group of 80 other cats from a large-scale humane case, the shy white-and-gray cat has preferred the quiet company of his feline friends, finding comfort in simply being near them. Best Friends supports shelters in reaching no-kill by taking in cats like Kenneth who may need more time and care before going to homes. Shyness can make it difficult for cats to stand out to potential adopters.

At the Sanctuary, Kenneth was safe. But it took him some time to find his bravery — and encourage other felines to do the same.

Like many shy cats, Kenneth preferred to observe the world from a safe distance, quietly taking in the rhythms of the Sanctuary’s Cat World (where cats receive the individualized care they need to heal and thrive) before deciding where he fit in.

Some of the cats he arrived with cautiously explored their new surroundings, soon warming up to caregivers and visitors and landing homes of their own after short stays. Others, like Kenneth, needed some coaxing.

VIDEO: behind the scenes in Cat World at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

With many shy cats, baby food — an extra tasty treat — can be the way to their hearts. Offered on a spoon, it gives cats a little extra breathing room when they aren’t so sure about people. At first, Kenneth watched from afar while his more outgoing feline friends investigated the treats.

Not wanting Kenneth to miss out, his caregivers put some of that delicious food into a bowl for him. But over time, his courage and trust in people grew — helped along by his love of treats. Kenneth graduated from the treat bowls to licking tasty morsels right off a spoon in a person’s hand.

While Kenneth still may not seek the spotlight, he is rarely alone. When caregivers go looking for Kenneth, they always know right where to start their search: in the cuddle puddles of cats. Kenneth will curl up around one of his friends to offer his support as they adjust to their home-between-homes in Cat World. Sometimes he’s tucked neatly beside a single companion; other times he’s right in the middle of a warm pile of cats napping together.

Arriving somewhere new can be stressful, especially for shy cats. New sights, unfamiliar sounds, and strangers can be overwhelming — which is exactly when Kenneth tends to appear.

“Kenneth gravitates to the cats who are willing to be seen but may not be ready to interact with humans yet,” Best Friends caregiver Alicia McCormack says. His quiet calm offers newcomers a sense of peace and reassurance.

Any cat is welcome to join him in the cuddle sessions, Alicia says. Kenneth will always scoot over to make space for one more. For shy cats, the presence of a calm cat can make all the difference. Watching Kenneth nap peacefully or having him curl up beside them shows newcomers that Cat World is a safe place to relax.

Kenneth seems to have found confidence in the support he gives and receives from his feline friends. With encouragement from his buddies (and the occasional motorized mouse toy), Kenneth has begun to discover the joy of play. Caregivers sometimes spot him joining a quiet game of tag or batting curiously at a toy as it zips across the floor.

Shy cat finds the confidence to climb higher

He’ll even accept a soft stroke now and then, as his curiosity and comfort around people grow. He’s no longer the last to approach a human visitor offering scritches. Surrounded by companions whose bravery is also beginning to bloom, Kenneth is finding courage of his own.

Whether he’s curled around a newcomer in Cat World or tucked into longtime friends, Kenneth continues his quiet work: making sure every cat knows they are welcome.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.