A viral TikTok video showing sleepy, sun-drenched cats has captured the attention of thousands—not just for its charm, but for the story behind it. The cats featured have been waiting for homes for a combined total of more than 2,000 days.
The video, shared by @katiesplaceshelter on March 29, has received over 506,800 views and 72,000 likes. It features five long-term residents at Katie’s Place Small Animal Shelter in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, a volunteer-run, no-kill shelter that specializes in caring for special-needs cats.
Gina, a 24-year-old shelter volunteer and adoption counselor, spoke to Newsweek about the cats and their stories. The video highlights Springer (709 days), Ejay (526 days), Toby Keith (399 days), Paris Deguchi (240 days), and Oki (179 days). Despite their gentle nature and affectionate personalities, all five have received little to no adoption interest.
“These cats are full of love, and I don’t understand why they keep getting overlooked,” Gina said.
- Springer, now 17, was rescued from the streets. He has chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism but remains playful and active. “He has the energy of a young cat and greets everyone who visits,” Gina said.
- Oki, around five or six, was surrendered after his owners developed allergies. Healthy and friendly, he still hasn’t caught anyone’s attention. “He just tends to fly under the radar,” Gina added.
- Toby Keith, age five, was found as a stray in a dangerous area and tested positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus). Though he has been adopted and returned twice, he became withdrawn after being separated from his best friend, Pendragon. They are now considered a bonded pair.
- Ejay, estimated to be eight or nine, was transferred from another shelter in Alberta. Like Toby, he is also FIV-positive.
- Paris Deguchi, 15, was surrendered after her 92-year-old owner passed away. With no family to take her in, she has waited nearly a year for someone to offer her a new home.
Gina believes age and health conditions are often the biggest hurdles to adoption. “It’s harder for cats to get adopted than dogs because shelters can be very stressful environments. Many cats are shy and take time to open up,” she explained. “But once they’re in a home, we often see them become affectionate and cuddly.”
The video sparked an emotional response online. One viewer commented, “As sad as I am to see this, it means 700 days for Springer of love, warmth, and no hunger.” Gina replied warmly: “700 days of second breakfast and dinner because he always tricks us into thinking he hasn’t eaten.”
Others expressed heartbreak over the video, with one user writing, “I just sobbed hysterically over Springer,” and another noting, “At least they’re happy where they are, with slow blinks and soft beds.”
Katie’s Place continues to care for its long-term residents while searching for the right families to give them forever homes. Gina hopes the video helps more people see the value in adopting older or special-needs cats.
“Someone just needs to give them a chance,” she said.
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