Over the past five years, many of us have experienced significant life changes, whether moving, starting a new job, ending a relationship, or beginning a family. However, Marriott, a shelter cat, has spent those five years—more than 2,000 days—waiting to be adopted.
Found near a Marriott Hotel in Maryland five and a half years ago, Marriott was brought to the Chesapeake Feline Association (CFA). Despite being a deserving candidate for a forever home, her shy nature has made it challenging for potential adopters to connect with her. “Marriott is very shy and tends to hide around new people,” Jaclene Commers, CFA’s treasurer, told Newsweek.
Marriott’s exact age is uncertain, but the CFA estimates she is between 6 and 8 years old. “She is more of an independent cat and very shy around people she doesn’t know, so she hides around almost everyone,” Commers explained. She was likely a stray for about three to six months before joining the CFA.
While forming connections has been difficult for Marriott due to her timidity, she has found solace in her friendship with Boots, a deaf senior cat at the shelter. “Boots does not like people, but she and Marriott are often found looking out of the windows together. Whenever Boots starts meowing, Marriott runs to her side to comfort her,” Commers shared.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, approximately 3.2 million cats enter shelters annually, with around 2.1 million getting adopted. The CFA team remains hopeful and dedicated to finding Marriott a loving home.
Marriott’s ideal home would be a quiet environment with an owner who can offer patience and love. To help in their search, the CFA shared her story on TikTok (@chesapeakefeline), hoping to find her a “sweet, shy, and independent girl” a forever home. The video has garnered over 3,700 views and 800 likes, leading to some interest but no definitive adoption yet.
“The online reaction has been great, and we started a fundraiser to raise $2,000 for all the 2,000 days she has been at the shelter waiting,” Commers said. The TikTok post has received over 100 comments, with many expressing support and hope for Marriott’s adoption. One comment reads: “I hope that sweet baby can find a home.” Another user shared, “Our cat is extremely shy but quite loving with us. Just takes time. Someone please give her a chance.” Another comment highlights the challenge faced by black cats: “Thank you for advocating for her! It’s so tough for black kitties. Hope she gets a safe and loving home soon.”
The CFA continues to advocate for Marriott, believing it’s her turn to find a family of her own.
