D’Artagnan’s story is an important reminder to research before you commit to getting a new pet.
The good news is that D’Artagnan’s story has a happy ending, but not all kittens will be so lucky.
The black and white kitten was sold in a Sainsbury’s car park at just six weeks old, younger than experts recommend a young cat should be separated from its mother.
It was bought by someone who wasn’t prepared for the responsibility of having a boisterous kitten to look after, and soon they handed D’Artagnan in to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, believing he was feral.
It turns out the kitten wasn’t feral at all, and that his ‘wild’ behaviour was just your usual kitten playfulness.
Thankfully, the Battersea team were able to place D’Artagnan in a foster home, where he could be cared for until he was ready for a full adoption.
Cattery Team Leader Bonita Brincat said: ‘D’Artagnan was such a sweet little thing from the minute he arrived.
‘While it was clear to us he was not feral, as his previous owner had believed, it is understandable that someone who hadn’t had experience with kittens before, or done detailed research in to what to expect, might mistake normal playful behaviour and high energy levels as a sign of “wildness”.
‘Getting a pet should never be an impulse decision – it’s so important to think it through carefully and make sure you know what you’re getting into.’
Once D’Artagnan was ready to head out on his own, he was adopted by his new owner, Olivia Hadley.
Since being welcomed into her home in South London, the kitten has been able to be as playful as he pleases, enjoying trying to destroy the Christmas tree.
Olivia said: ‘D’Artagnan is the perfect kitten.
‘He is always getting up to mischief, whether it’s climbing through the blinds, jumping into a running bath (he won’t do that again), eating my porridge when my back is turned or savaging my houseplants.
‘He’s a very confident chap and certainly fearless, but is slowly learning the boundaries. He is such a loving fellow and always wants to be close, following me into every room and cuddling up whenever my lap is available.’
After spending the Christmas together, D’Artagnan has settled into his new home – and Olivia is so glad he’s a part of her life.
‘Like for so many people, Christmas this year was different and we ended up spending the festive season together, just the two of us,’ she said.
‘I can’t imagine my life without him, he provides endless entertainment, company and love.
‘My life is that much richer for having him in it. It saddens me that at such a young age he had so much upheaval, but I believe he knows now that he’s not going anywhere and that he’s stuck with me for the rest of time.’
The team at Battersea hope that D’Artagnan’s tale will urge people to think carefully before adopting a new pet.
‘We completely understand how easy it is to fall in love with a kitten or cat at first sight and make a decision there and then to take them home,’ said Bonita.
‘However, you should always do your homework first so you know what to expect and can be confident you’re getting your new pet from a responsible source.
‘At Battersea we would of course recommend any potential owner thinks of rescue first.
‘We’re glad that D’Artagnan’s previous owner made the responsible decision to bring him to us when it became clear he wasn’t the right pet for them.’
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