After Raising 4 Kittens, Chanel Now Waiting For A Home: Huntington Adoptable Pet Of The Week

HUNTINGTON, NY — Chanel, a long-haired calico cat described by volunteers as “friendly, gentle, calm, and overflowing with love,” is this week’s adoptable pet of the week at Grateful Paw Cat Shelter.

At just about a year old, Chanel has already experienced more than many cats ever should, according to the shelter.
Chanel first appeared in a Wantagh neighborhood in September, quietly showing up at the home of a family who soon realized she was searching for more than food.

“She came for the meals, but more importantly, she came for the people,” the shelter said.

Still a kitten herself, Chanel quickly bonded with the family caring for her.

“She would follow them around the yard whenever they were outside, always hoping for attention, pets, and companionship,” the shelter said. “She even tried to come inside and make their home her own.”

But because the family had a senior cat with health issues, they could not safely bring her indoors.

Wanting to help, they contacted rescuer John Debacker, who trapped Chanel and brought her to Grateful Paw Cat Shelter on Feb. 2.

That’s when volunteers discovered she was pregnant.

“We immediately realized she was pregnant, though we had no idea she was only halfway through her pregnancy,” the shelter said.

Chanel was examined by the shelter’s veterinarian and placed in foster care, where she was finally able to rest and prepare for motherhood.

A month later, she gave birth to four kittens: Tommy, Michael, Calvin and Marc.

“She proved to be an incredible mother,” the shelter said.
Though affectionate with her foster family, Chanel was also fiercely protective of her babies.

“Her boys were adventurous from the very beginning, exploring long before they should have been,” the shelter said. “But Chanel watched over them every second, patiently teaching them and keeping them safe.”

Despite her young age, volunteers say Chanel devoted herself completely to caring for her kittens.

“Once her babies were eating on their own, Chanel was spayed and brought back to the shelter to begin the next chapter of her life — one that is finally about her,” the shelter said.

Now living in the shelter’s Purple Room, Chanel has claimed a favorite perch by the window overlooking the backyard and parking lot.

“Sometimes we wonder what she is thinking as she gazes outside,” the shelter said. “Perhaps she remembers her days trying to survive outdoors, or maybe she is simply waiting and hoping for someone to finally choose her forever.”

Volunteers describe Chanel as affectionate and people-oriented.

“She adores human affection and happily leans into head scratches, chin rubs, soft pets, and of course, treats,” the shelter said.

While she will occasionally play, volunteers say what Chanel truly wants is companionship.

“She craves the comfort of human touch,” the shelter said.
Because of difficult experiences while living outdoors — including encounters with an aggressive stray cat — Chanel can sometimes be cautious around other cats.

The shelter believes she would do best as the only cat in the home or with one calm companion close to her age.

“Too many animals would likely overwhelm her,” volunteers said.

Chanel has tested negative for FeLV/FIV and parasites, is fully vaccinated, spayed, microchipped, and litter box trained.
Those interested in meeting Chanel can contact Grateful Paw Cat Shelter at 631-757-4517, email cats@laphuntington.org, visit the shelter’s Facebook page, or stop by the shelter during visiting hours.

Grateful Paw Cat Shelter is located at 3 Verleye Ave. in East Northport and is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., with Thursday evening visits available from 7 to 9 p.m. by appointment.

“She has spent her short life searching for safety, love, and belonging,” the shelter said. “Now it is her turn to be cared for, cherished, and spoiled the way she always should have been. Most of all, Chanel deserves the chance to finally be someone’s baby.”