When Theodore was surrendered to the Cat Care Society, his world turned upside down. Labeled as having “house soiling issues,” the sweet orange tabby was shy and shut down, clearly overwhelmed by the shelter environment and unsure why he was there.
“The surrender paperwork described his biggest fear as ‘leaving any space he is comfortable in,’” said Ariana Jenks, marketing manager at Cat Care Society.
After completing his medical checkup, Theodore was released onto the free-roam floor with other cats. But instead of mingling, he found comfort in a rather unusual spot — underneath a giant cat bed.
“Our animal care supervisor, Michelle, noticed something strange during her morning cleaning,” Jenks said. “She saw that the bed wasn’t where she left it. It kept moving — all on its own.”
Turns out, Theodore was using the oversized bed like a turtle shell, crawling beneath it to explore while staying hidden and protected.
Staff quickly realized his creative coping strategy, but they also worried someone might accidentally sit on the bed or miss seeing Theodore entirely.
So Michelle made a sign and placed it over the bed.
“She saw another cat, a little orange guy named Teddy, lounging on top of it,” Jenks explained. “We secretly think Teddy knew Theo was underneath and was guarding him. Michelle put the sign up so Theo wouldn’t be overlooked — or squashed!”
Theodore is still settling into life at the shelter, and his caretakers are working patiently to help him feel safe and loved. For now, his cozy hiding spot under the bed is his sanctuary — and that’s perfectly okay.
“The best home for Theodore will be one filled with patience and gentle love,” Jenks said. “Preferably a quiet environment without young children, since we believe that contributed to his stress in his last home.”
Despite his nerves, Theodore’s former family said he was affectionate, chatty, and friendly — once he felt comfortable.
His new friends at Cat Care Society believe that the right person will come along — someone who sees the shy little guy under the bed and knows he’s worth the wait.
Interested in giving Theodore a forever home? Reach out to Cat Care Society to learn more.
