Butternut Is Playful, Curious And Ready To Shine: Huntington Adoptable Pet Of The Week

HUNTINGTON, NY — Butternut, a handsome tiger boy from the “squash family” who is about a year and a half old, is ready to steal hearts as this week's adoptable pet of the week.

Butternut and his brother came to the shelter as part of a large colony that had taken up residence in one of the community gardens in Huntington. A dedicated local trapper and feeder had planned to TNR them, but quickly realized there was something special about their personalities and reached out to see if the shelter could help.

“Of course, we said yes," said Debbi Larkin, President of the Grateful Paw Shelter.

Before arriving at the shelter, Butternut had been set up in a large crate in the middle of a busy room so he could be exposed to plenty of other animals and humans — and he took it all in stride. He looks just like his mom: a golden-brown classic tabby with long, sleek lines and beautifully symmetrical markings that look as if they were painted on with a brush. His lemon-colored eyes are endlessly inquisitive, and when he relaxes, his whole face softens.

While little is known about his early life, Butternut is more than ready to write his own story — especially once he finds his forever home. Tiger cats, more commonly known as tabbies, are not a breed but a pattern, and Butternut falls into the classic tabby category. These cats are known for being sweet, curious, and social once they get to know you.

“Expect polite sniffs, gentle bunts, and a few meows as a formal greeting," the shelter said.

Like many tabbies, Butternut also has a natural hunting instinct, which is just one more reason he is looking for a safe, loving indoor home.

Butternut has been in all three shelter rooms — through no fault of his own. He started in the kitten room with his brother, then moved to the purple room with cats his age once much younger kittens arrived. When some bullying issues came up in another space, Butternut and his brother, Acorn, were moved in to help calm the group — and it worked beautifully.

“He has fit right in and is now one of the first cats to approach visitors when they arrive," the shelter said.

Butternut is often found gazing through the window into the hallway, making sure he is not missing any excitement. While he sometimes prefers to sit back and observe, shelter staff say that as socializers and volunteers continue spending time with him, his gentle and affectionate nature will shine even more.

“We love seeing siblings leave together when possible,” the shelter noted, “but it’s not mandatory for Butternut, as Acorn is still extremely shy.”

Playtime is where Butternut truly lights up. He loves laser toys, wand toys, birdie TV, and small mice — which he enthusiastically tosses around the room and tries to dunk into the water bowl. And speaking of water bowls, Butternut has a quirky habit of diving headfirst into them, splashing water everywhere, tipping them over, and scooping up whatever is left with his paw.

“We’re not sure where he drank water when he lived outside, but this may be a long-standing habit — and one that will likely bring plenty of laughs to his future family," the shelter said.

Butternut is fully vetted. He has tested negative for FeLV and FIV, tested negative for parasites, had his ears, eyes, and heart checked, is up to date on vaccines, neutered, and litter box trained. Those interested in meeting Butternut can call the shelter at 631-757-4517, email cats@laphuntington.org, check out the shelter’s Facebook page, or stop by in person.

Grateful Paw Shelter is located at 3 Verleye Ave., East Northport, and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m., with Thursday evening hours from 7 to 9 p.m. by appointment.