NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — There's a cat at No Paws Left Behind who is patiently waiting for his new family.

 

iBerkshire's Companion Corner is a weekly series spotlighting an animal in our local shelters that is ready to find a home.

 

Umo is a 4-year-old black domestic short hair. He has been at the shelter since March.

 

Volunteer Debbie Melle said Umo can be a little nervous at first and hide but with patience would love to be your friend.

 

"His biggest problem was he was a little sassy, and he's come a long way with treats and some long brushing," she said.

 

Since he gets shy he might not fit into a home with children. Umo can't be with other cats but might be able to be with a dog who understands cats.

 

"I would say, probably no kids, because he startles easily, so no kids. And he can be a little sassy and maybe maybe give a little claw," said Melle. "But other than that, he would maybe even go with a dog that knows cats. He just wants to be your buddy."

 

His favorite thing is to be brushed and play with small toys.

 

"He absolutely loves being brushed. So that's a plus. His fur has come a long way. It's very shiny and black now," she said.  

 

He came to the shelter in March with his siblings and is the last one who needs to find a home.

 

"He came from a home that had too many kitties. He came with two brothers, and they since have been adopted and are doing very well," Melle said.

 

Since coming to the shelter he has worked very hard to open up.

 

"He's come a long way. He's come out of his shell. People, I will say, all the volunteers have worked, bought brushes, bought different things, tried different things," she said. "And we really feel like he's ready."

 

Umo's adoption fee is sponsored by AAA and he is ready for his forever home.

 

"He's so happy. I really feel like he needs a chance. I mean, he's not going to be your easy [cat], but I think he's a beautiful puma and just ready to blossom, he's gorgeous. So take a look at Umo," Melle said.

 

You can request to visit Umo at No Paws Left Behind and read more about him on the shelter's website.