Animal Profile

Bella is on the at-risk list due to behavior. She is not thriving in the care center and continues to display challenging behavior during interactions. She is extremely intelligent and high energy, and needs to expend energy constructively with interactive play sessions 3-4X/day. In addition to playtime, this cat would also benefit from mental exercise from activities such as puzzle toys/games, lick mats, or clicker training. Without providing activity for her mind and body, the cat may react with rough play, potentially resulting in bite/scratch incidents. It is in her best interest to move out of the kennel environment and into a stable home as quickly as possible. She would do best in a home with adopters who are willing to give her plenty of time and space to adjust, and who have experience with feline body language, overstimulation, rough play, and who have the time to invest in managing these behaviors on a consistent basis to avoid (further) bite/scratch incidents.

Let's get to know each other a bit more...

This pet needs emergency placement. Please click here to go to our emergency placement page for more information. Due to the detailed behavior issues, this animal is only available for foster/adoption through one of ACC's New Hope Partners. If you are interested in adopting or fostering, please fill out the pre-screener form. This animal is not directly available for adoption through ACC and is only available by completing the pre-screener form.Adoption inquiries sent directly to ACC will not receive a response. Pre-Screener Form Bella is on the at-risk list due to behavior. She is not thriving in the care center and continues to display challenging behavior during interactions. She is extremely intelligent and high energy, and needs to expend energy constructively with interactive play sessions 3-4X/day. In addition to playtime, this cat would also benefit from mental exercise from activities such as puzzle toys/games, lick mats, or clicker training. Without providing activity for her mind and body, the cat may react with rough play, potentially resulting in bite/scratch incidents. It is in her best interest to move out of the kennel environment and into a stable home as quickly as possible. She would do best in a home with adopters who are willing to give her plenty of time and space to adjust, and who have experience with feline body language, overstimulation, rough play, and who have the time to invest in managing these behaviors on a consistent basis to avoid (further) bite/scratch incidents. What my friends at ACC say about me: I am looking for a home with a patient person. I am finding the shelter a little overwhelming, but when it's just you and me and some peace and quiet you'll see what a love bug I am. I will flourish in a calm environment and a low-traffic home. I would appreciate slow introductions to new people and places to help me feel safe. I'm sensitive and shy. I'll need extra help from you. I would do best in a home with only adult humans. Due to the detailed behavior issues, this animal is only available for foster/adoption through one of ACC's New Hope Partners. If you are interested in adopting or fostering, please fill out the pre-screener form. This animal is not directly available for adoption through ACC and is only available by completing the pre-screener form.Adoption inquiries sent directly to ACC will not receive a response. Pre-Screener Form A volunteer writes: Bella's previous family explained that she always loved to be near them. She wouldn't ask for much in terms of pets, but basked in the glow of being close to the ones she loved.

My medical notes are...

Weight: 17.5 lbs

Medical Notes

11/8/2024

DVM Intake Exam Estimated age: dentition and conformation consistent w owner reported age of 8 years Microchip noted on Intake? scanned positive History: o surrender Subjective: QAR Observed Behavior - sedated d/t prior o reported hx of needing sedation for vet visits, growling when approached Is there evidence of Cruelty? N Is there evidence of Neglect? N Is there evidence of Trauma? N Objective T = NP P = wnl R = wnl BCS 9/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears clean, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam: moderate wear and staining to visible dentition PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, CRT < 2, Lungs clear, eupnic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: FS MSI: Ambulatory x 4, flea dirt, no masses noted, dull hair coat CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Rectal: DRENP, externally wnl Assessment Obese Dental dz approx 2/4 Prognosis: fair Plan: intake exam and tasks sedated with 0.14mL dex (0.5mg/mL) and 0.14mL torb (10mg/ml) IM, p was still alert but sedated enough for exam, no need for reversal Monitor appetite carefully, extremely overweight and at risk for hepatic lipidosis SURGERY: Okay for surgery: prior altered

11/20/2024

Progress exam: Sneezing reported on rounds board Subjective: BAR, no C/V/D. Sneezing repeatedly Objective: EYES: Clear, no discharge LUNGS: Eupneic, no sign of respiratory distress NASAL CAVITY: mild clear serous discharge MUSCULOSKELETAL: Ambulatory x4, no lameness or lesions NEURO: Appropriate mentation ASSESSMENT: Presumed URI PLAN: Per standing orders -Under the weather, ppe sign & monitor log placed on kennel -Start fortiflora 1 packet PO q24h x10days -CTM, recheck on 11/23

11/27/2024

Progress exam: URI recheck Subjective: QBAR, no C/V/D. Sneezing noted, eating well Objective: EYES: Clear, no discharge LUNGS: Eupneic, no sign of respiratory distress NASAL CAVITY: bit of blood noted in right nostril MUSCULOSKELETAL: Ambulatory x4, no lameness or lesions NEURO: Appropriate mentation ASSESSMENT: Presumed URI PLAN: Per standing orders -CTM, recheck on 11/30

12/4/2024

Progress exam: URI recheck Subjective: BAR, no C/S/V/D. Eating well Objective: EYES: Clear, no discharge LUNGS: Eupneic, no sign of respiratory distress NASAL CAVITY: no discharge present MUSCULOSKELETAL: Ambulatory x4, no lameness or lesions NEURO: Appropriate mentation ASSESSMENT: Presumed URI appears resolved PLAN: Per standing orders -Remove URI signage from kennel -CTM closely while in QACC

12/9/2024

S/O -p noted to have anisocoria on rounds -QAR, allows for minimal handling, hissing, no c/s/v/d appreciated EENT: no ocular or nasal dc HL: eupneic MSI: amb x 4 Neuro: when first approached possible aniscoria appreciated with the right pupil larger than the left, PLRs (direct and indirect) intact A/P Possible anisocoria - appreciated in photo but not as much in exam, given p age, routine blood work sent off to idexx, check for results tomorrow CTM while at QACC

12/10/2024

Bloodwork results, brief recheck S/O: BAR, at back of kennel resting sternal Eating well No c/s/v/d noted Eupneic No ocular or nasal discharge Pupils appear symmetrical OU with intact PLRs CBC: wnl CHEM: hypoproteinemia 6.1 (6.3-8.8), hypoglobulinemia 2.7 (3.0-5.9) T4: wnl A: Low total protein, low globulins - ro transient vs enteropathy vs hepatopathy vs other Possible anisocoria - not appreciated today Dental disease Obese P: No treatment indicated, CTM while at QACC

Details on my behavior are...

Behavior Condition: 4. Orange

Behavior History
Behavior Assessment

Upon intake, Bella was scanned positive for MC. She could not be collared or have her picture taken to update SB records due to hissing and growling. Bella could not be transferred to her kennel because of her defensive nature, despite multiple efforts from BRC staff.

Date of Intake: 11/7/2024

Is this cat having litter box issues?: No

Basic Information:: Name: Bella Age: 6-10 years old Color: white/black/tan Sex: Female Altered: Yes Declawed: No Surrender Reason: Client cannot afford to take care of animal. Length of time owned: 6 Where the previous owner got this cat: Client's bible student became homeless. Client thought she was going to temporarily take Bella until she found housing. Housing was not found and Bella ended up in client's care.

Previously lived with:: Adults

How is this cat around strangers?: Tolerant, Shy & Timid, Curious

How is this cat around children?: No experience, but client does not recommend Bella in a home with other children.

How is this cat around other cats?: Plays rough (can break skin), Hisses. She does not like one of client's friends because he owns a male cat. Bella can smell the male cat's scent on the friend.

How is this cat around dogs?: No experience

Behavior Notes: How this cat reacts when someone... - Trims their nails: Never done - Brushes their coat: Struggles or squirms - Picks up/holds: Struggles or squirms - Places them in a carrier: Stress meows, Growls

Bite history:: No bite history.

Energy level/descriptors:: Low (mostly lays around)

Has this cat ever had any medical issues?: No

Medical Notes: Veterinarian: Bella does not have a permanent vet, she is up to date with shots. Last vet check: 8/1/2024

For a New Family to Know: Description of this cat most of the time: Friendly, Quiet, Lazy/Couch potato Areas the cat had access to: Indoors Where the cat spent most time: Other Additional info: She follows me where ever I go. She does not demand to be petted, she just likes to lie next to me. How the cat likes to play: Chases and pounces on toys How often the cat got interactive playtime: Multiple times per week This cat likes to scratch on: Carpet/Fabric, Other Additional info: you must have a scratching post. She will scratch the walls. Previous owner's favorite things about the cat: She is low maintenance. She doesn't require a lot of attention. She totally minds her business when all except for 1 visitor came. Behavior issues noted: Scratches furniture, Hides in fear, Dislikes cats, Dislikes dogs, Other Additional info: She must be sedated at vet visits. Type of food the cat eats: Both wet and dry food Brands of food: fancy feast Favorite treats: fancy feast

KNOWN HISTORY:: Previously lived with: Adults Behavior toward strangers: Tolerant, Shy & Timid, Curious Behavior toward children: No experience, but client does not recommend Bella in a home with other children. Behavior toward cats: Plays rough (can break skin), Hisses. She does not like one of client's friends because he owns a male cat. Bella can smell the male cat's scent on the friend. Behavior toward dogs: No experience Bite or Scratch history: None but reported to "break skin" when playing rough with cats. Litter box training: Location and set up not specified. Energy level/descriptors: Low Description of this cat most of the time: Friendly, Quiet, Lazy/Couch potato Additional info: She follows me where ever I go. She does not demand to be petted, she just likes to lie next to me. How the cat likes to play: Chases and pounces on toys How often the cat got interactive playtime: Multiple times per week This cat likes to scratch on: Carpet/Fabric, Other Additional info: you must have a scratching post. She will scratch the walls. Previous owner's favorite things about the cat: She is low maintenance. She doesn't require a lot of attention. She totally minds her business when all except for 1 visitor came. Behavior issues noted: Scratches furniture, Hides in fear, Dislikes cats, Dislikes dogs Type of food the cat eats: Both wet and dry food Brands of food: fancy feast Favorite treats: fancy feast Upon intake, Bella was scanned positive for MC. She could not be collared or have her picture taken to update SB records due to hissing and growling. Bella could not be transferred to her kennel because of her defensive nature, despite multiple efforts from BRC staff.

ENRICHMENT NOTES:: 11/14/24 FB79 On the top part of her kennel, Bella has a neutral body with her paws tucked away and forward ears. Her eyes do becomes wider and she hisses when i speak softly as well as when i toss some treats to the top shelf for her; she leans in to sniff but looks up at me once more and hisses once again. 11/22/24 FB61 Lying in front of kennel, body neutral and face tense. She is very lethargic due to her URI. She does not retreat - she only hisses softly as I speak to her and open the kennel door. She tolerates petting on her head with the scratcher tool without escalating. Good girl today! Monitor a bit longer because sometimes when a cat has a URI they will not escalate due to having a lower energy level and not feeling well. I reward her with treats (she eats them all) and I leave her a catnip toy. 11/26/24 FB61 Lying in front of kennel, ears forward and body neutral - face slightly tense. She begins vocalizing softly as I open the kennel door! & when I offer her a treat she eats it! I spend the remainder of the session clicking and rewarding each time she sniffs my hand curiously. Beginning to warm up... treats are surely the way to her heart. 12/1/24 Laying in her bed bella has a neutral face with forward ears and soft eyes; she vocalizes when i approach and speak softly. When treats are tossed inside she leans into sniff and stands with a mid-level tail to step forward and begin to enjoy. When the pointer tool is slowly inserted she flinches but is briefly tolerant of pets on her head before she backs away into her den until the tool is removed and she can return to her treats. 12/7/24 FB58 Sitting in her box with eyes wide, ears forward and appears curious. I offer her my hand and she sniffs it, doesn't eat the treats offered and accepts a couple pets on her head. As I move to offer her a couple treats in the box, she raises her paw as if to hit me but I pull away and she remains where she is. I offer the scratcher tool and she sniffs it before she begins to rub her cheek along it and accepts pets along her head, cheek and side and leans into the touch enthusiastically while purring. She allows me to pet her head and cheeks with my hand as well and leans into the touch. 12/12/24 & 12/16/24 FB79 Laying in her bed, Bella has a relaxed face/body and chirps slowly when I approach and speak softly. When I toss in treats, she quickly stands with a mid-level tail, steps forward and begins to enjoy her treats. She flinches when I slowly bring in my hand and sniffs it but returns to eating her treats unbothered; when I attempt to pet her head she once again flinches back away, but recovers quickly, returning back to her treats. 12/19/24 FB79 In her kennel with her ears and soft almond eyes Bella vocalize when she hears me speak softly and pokes her head through the cubby door. She allows all pets on her head and takes all treats offered.

ACTIVITY LEVEL:: Moderate

VOCAL:: Somewhat chatty

CHARACTER TYPE: : Bold,Curious,Independent

POTENTIAL CHALLENGES:: Rough play,Fearful,New home adjustment period

Potential challenges comments:: Bella is reported to play rough/break skin and the feline behavior team feel that this cat will do best in an experienced cat parent home.

BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION: : New Hope Only

RECOMMENDATIONS:: Single-pet home,Adult only home

Recommendations comments:: Single pet home due to previous owner notes. Bella does not tolerate attention or petting and is fearful or stressed in the shelter; she may be a little more independent, and may be intimidated by small children. Due to the behaviors seen in the care center, we feel that this cat will do best in an experienced, adult only home.

BEHAVIOR SUMMARY:: Inside of the den, Bella hisses with wide dilated eyes, a tilted flicking left ear and a thumping tail when the assessor lifts the den cover for a better view. She isn't interested in any treats and closely watches the assessor for any movements. Bella begins to growl/grumble when the scratcher tool is brought close to make contact and immediately swats and strikes the tool before it pets her. She continues to duck, dodge, swat and strike at the tool multiple times when petting was attempted. Pick up was not attempted. 12/10/24 Bella was in her box as the assessor approached, ears forward and face neutral. Bella made eye contact when spoken to and she vocalized as the kennel door opened. Bella tolerated petting very briefly with the assess-a-hand while leaning in and rolling over onto her side. After a few seconds she swats at the hand and bites it. Pick up was not attempted at this time to reduce stress. Bella is displaying behaviors that preclude placement in the adoptions room and/or may require further investigation before placement in a home. She has tried to swat, is extremely fearful in the shelter environment and does not currently tolerate petting or handling. The behavior team feels that placement with a New Hope Partner is the best option at this time.