Bernie

Bernie — Big Tomcat, Bigger Heart

Hi, I’m Bernie.

My story started on the streets of San Francisco after I was abandoned and left to fend for myself. Thankfully, those days are behind me, and now I’m ready to find a loving home where I can finally settle in for good.

I’m a big, handsome tomcat with an even bigger heart. After a little time to get my bearings, I quickly showed my foster family what a sweet boy I am. I absolutely love pets and enjoy spending time near my people, whether I'm following you around the house or simply hanging out nearby.

One of my favorite things in the world is having my head brushed. The moment the brush comes out, I'm in heaven. I’m also very food motivated, which makes it easy to win me over, and I have excellent litter box manners.

I have a playful side too and enjoy toys and interactive fun. While I can sometimes be a little cautious when adjusting to new situations, my curiosity and affectionate nature always shine through. I’m comfortable being picked up, enjoy human companionship, and seem to wear a cute little smile wherever I go.

Because I can be a bit sensitive to new sights and sounds, I think I’d be happiest in a quieter home where I can continue to build my confidence and settle in at my own pace. Once I feel safe, I’m a loving companion who enjoys being close to my people and soaking up all the affection I can get.

Concerned about me being FIV+? Don’t be—there’s lots of helpful information out there to put your mind at ease. I can live a long, healthy life, meow. If you’d like to learn more, here’s a great resource from Cornell University FIV Guide.

If you're looking for a gentle, affectionate companion who will happily keep you company and never say no to pets, treats, or a good head brushing, I just might be your guy.

Want to see more of me? Check out my Instagram: @big.man.bernie

Love,

Bernie

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Bubba

Bubba — Your Loyal Little Shadow (With the World's Best Nap Game)

Hi there! I'm Bubba, an adorable orange tabby Manx with a tiny tail, a big heart, and a very important title: World Champion Napper. If there's a cozy blanket nearby, you can bet I'll be curled up on it, dreaming about my next snack or play session.

Before coming to Give Me Shelter, I was abandoned in Fresno. Thankfully, those days are behind me, and now I'm ready to find a forever family that will never leave me behind again.

I'm the kind of cat who loves being part of whatever you're doing. You won't usually find me sitting in your lap, but you'll almost always find me nearby. Cooking dinner? I'll supervise from a few feet away. Watching TV? I'll be lounging on my favorite cardboard scratcher. Heading to the bathroom? Yep...I'll come keep you company there too. I just like being close to my people.

I'm also quite the conversationalist. I have the sweetest little voice and love checking in with gentle chats throughout the day. Whether I'm saying hello, asking how your day is going, or simply reminding you I'm nearby, I always have something to say.

Head scratches are one of my favorite things in the world, and once you start, I'll happily lean in for more. I can be a little cautious in new surroundings at first, but once I settle in, my affectionate personality really shines.

When I'm not perfecting my nap schedule, I enjoy chasing toys, batting things around the house, and entertaining myself with a good game even when no one's watching. I'm playful, a little goofy, and full of classic orange-cat charm—just maybe with slightly better judgment than the average orange cat.

If you're looking for a sweet companion who will quietly keep you company, chat about your day, and always make sure you're never alone in a room, I think we might be the perfect match.

I was rescued after being abandoned in Fresno, and now I'm ready for the happy ending I've been waiting for. Could that be with you?

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Bunny

Bunny — A Gentle Soul Looking for Someone to Believe In

Hi, I'm Bunny.

If you're looking for the kind of cat who will steal your heart with quiet moments instead of grand entrances, I just might be your perfect match.

I can be a little shy when we first meet. New people and new places are a bit overwhelming for me, so I'll need someone who understands that trust takes time. But if you're patient and let me go at my own pace, you'll discover a sweet, sensitive boy with so much love to give.

Once I know I'm safe, my favorite things are belly rubs, gentle affection, and purring away while spending time with my favorite person. I also have a playful side that starts to shine as my confidence grows. Wand and feather toys, little mice, and fun games help bring out my happy, curious personality.

I'd love to have a confident, playful feline friend who can show me that this whole "being a house cat" thing is actually pretty wonderful. Having another cat to look up to would help me continue building my confidence and remind me that humans aren't so scary after all.

I'm currently sharing my foster home with a kitten named Claudia, who's still working on her social skills. We've become great buddies, and you'll even spot us together in some of my photos! We don't need to be adopted together, but if you happen to fall in love with both of us, let Give Me Shelter know—we'd be happy to continue our friendship and be adopted together.

Because I'm a sensitive guy, I'd be happiest in a quiet, adult-only home with someone who understands that the best friendships are worth waiting for. If you're willing to invest a little patience, I promise to reward you with purrs, belly rubs, and the special kind of bond that only comes from earning a shy cat's trust.

I was rescued in Locke, CA.

Follow my foster adventures on Instagram: @purrfect_purrminators

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Claudia

Claudia — Playful, Curious, and Ready to Blossom

Hi! I'm Claudia.

I'm a happy, energetic little girl with a playful spirit and a heart that's growing braver every single day.

You see, I'm still learning that hands are meant for love. Sometimes I get a little nervous about being picked up or having hands reach toward me, but my foster says I've already made wonderful progress. Every day I'm becoming more comfortable, more trusting, and more confident. I'm looking for a family that's committed to continuing my socialization journey with patience, kindness, and lots of positive experiences. The time you invest in me now will help me grow into the confident, affectionate cat I'm meant to be.

When it's time to play, though, I'm all in! Feather wand toys are my absolute favorite, and I love chasing spring toys around the house until I'm completely worn out. I'm also quite the little athlete and have become an excellent jumper. If you can't find me, don't forget to look up—I love finding the highest perch in the room so I can keep an eye on everything happening below.

The quickest way to my heart? Churu, freeze-dried chicken treats, and my favorite Fancy Feast Chicken, Beef, and Turkey pâtés. Food is definitely one of my love languages!

I also adore other cats, especially my best friend, Bunny. We've been through a lot together, and you'll often find me grooming his face or curling up beside him. We really complement each other—Bunny helps me feel braver around people, and when he's feeling shy, I have a way of encouraging him to come out of his shell. We'd absolutely love to be adopted together, but it's not a requirement. I would, however, do best in a home with another friendly, social cat who can continue helping me build my confidence.

Because I'm still working on trusting people completely, I'd thrive in a quiet, adult-only home with someone who understands that confidence takes time to build. If you're excited to celebrate my little victories, spend time playing with me, and help me continue becoming comfortable with gentle handling and being picked up, I know I'll continue to blossom.

Sometimes the most rewarding friendships are the ones that take a little patience. I think I'm worth every minute.

Follow Claudia (and Bunny!) on Instagram: @purrfect_purrminators

I was rescued in Locke, CA.

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Elastigirl

Elastigirl — Your Constant Companion for Life's Everyday Adventures

Hi, I'm Elastigirl!

I almost didn't get my second chance. I was rescued from euthanasia at Stockton Animal Shelter, where I had become a volunteer favorite. Everyone who met me knew I was a special girl, and now I'm hoping to find the family who will love me forever.

I'm the kind of cat who wants to be part of everything you do. Folding laundry? I'm there. Organizing a drawer? I'll supervise. Opening a box? I need to inspect it immediately. Wherever my people are, that's exactly where I want to be.

I'm an exceptionally calm, confident, and curious girl who's nearly impossible to rattle. Fireworks? Vacuum cleaners? Visitors? None of that bothers me much. Instead of hiding, I'm usually the first one to investigate what's going on. I also come when I'm called because spending time with my people is one of my favorite things.

I form deep bonds with the people I love. I'll happily greet you at the door with my signature enthusiastic meow and be ready to hear all about your day. At bedtime, you'll usually find me sleeping beside you—or sometimes right on top of you. While I'm not much of a lap cat and prefer not to be carried, I absolutely love gentle scratches between my ears, along my cheeks, and down my back. I'll close my eyes, lean right into your hand, and soak up every second. My biggest purrs are reserved for making biscuits on a cozy blanket while cuddled up next to my favorite person.

Playtime is where I truly shine. Wand toys are my absolute favorite, and I love chasing, jumping, pouncing, wrestling toys, and showing off my athletic moves. Interactive play is how I connect with my people, so I'm hoping to find a family that enjoys playing as much as I do. If I think you've been ignoring me for too long, I may follow you around, chat with you, or even give your ankle a gentle little tap to remind you it's time for another play session.

I'm wonderfully easy to live with, too. I'm very tidy, use my litter box perfectly, groom myself beautifully, and don't leave much fur behind. I'm not especially food motivated, although I never turn down a Churu! My favorite meals are wet food mixed with extra water into a nice, soupy consistency.

I do have a chronic upper respiratory condition that causes adorable little snuffles and noisy breathing. My rescue team even had a nasal scope performed to look for a treatable cause, but no nasal polyp was found. While you may occasionally notice a little nasal discharge, it's simply part of who I am. My happy snorts and sniffles make it extra easy to know when I'm excited to see you!

Concerned about me being FIV+? Don’t be—there’s lots of helpful information out there to put your mind at ease. I can live a long, healthy life, meow. If you’d like to learn more, here’s a great resource from Cornell University FIV Guide.

I'd do best in an active home with plenty of everyday activity. I would likely become bored in a very quiet home, but if you're looking for a cat who wants to be your sidekick through every project, every chore, and every cozy evening, I think we're going to make a wonderful team.

I can't wait to meet you!

Rescued from euthanasia at Stockton Animal Shelter.

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Gabby

Gabby — Playful, Chatty, and Full of Tortie Charm

Hi, I'm Gabby!

If you're looking for a cat who will keep you smiling with her playful antics, adorable little chirps, and endless personality, I just might be your girl.

I'm a beautiful tortie with lots of energy and an even bigger heart. I love to play, whether it's chasing toys, exploring every corner of the house, or finding the perfect spot to launch into my next adventure. Once I've gotten my zoomies out, I'm happy to curl up for a cozy nap—especially if there's a soft blanket involved.

One of my favorite things in the whole world is head scratches. Give me a few good scratches, and I'll happily reward you with my sweet little squeaks and chirps. I'm quite the conversationalist and love letting you know what I'm thinking throughout the day.

At bedtime, you'll usually find me sleeping at the foot of the bed. I like being close to my people and quietly keeping them company while we all get some rest.

Like many cats, I'm happiest when I can choose how I receive affection. I enjoy pets and attention on my own terms and prefer to keep all four paws on the ground instead of being carried around. My future family will understand that respecting my boundaries is just another way of earning my trust.

I also have a few favorite hideaways under the coffee table, couch, or bathroom sink. They're my cozy little retreats when I want a quiet moment before I'm ready to come back out and join the fun.

I get along well with other cats and would be happy joining a home with a feline friend. I also think I'd do just fine as your one-and-only, as long as I have plenty of playtime, enrichment, and love.

If you're looking for a playful, affectionate companion with a big personality, a sweet voice, and plenty of tortitude to keep life interesting, I'd love to meet you.

Gabby was rescued in Tracy, California.

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Jazzy

Jazzy — A Lap Cat Looking for Her Purrfect Person

Hi there! I'm Jazzy, and if you're looking for a devoted companion who believes laps were invented just for cats, I think we might be the perfect match.

My favorite place in the whole world is curled up in your lap. I'll happily climb aboard, settle in, and ask for gentle head rubs while I purr away. Head scratches are definitely my love language! I'm not a big fan of being petted all over my body, though—I much prefer affection on my terms.

I'm a sweet, friendly girl who has been adjusting nicely to my foster home. Sudden movements can still make me a little nervous while I'm getting used to new places, but everyday household noises, like the washing machine, don't bother me at all.

I appreciate people who pay attention to my signals and understand when I'm ready for a little break from petting. In return, you'll have a loyal companion who loves curling up in your lap and spending quiet time by your side.

I'm hoping to find an adult-only home where I can be your one and only feline. I have so much love to give, and I can't wait to spend my days keeping your lap warm and your heart full.

Jazzy was rescued in partnership with ACT S/N Clinic in Stockton.

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Mama Moo

Mama Moo — A Sweet, Curious Girl with a Soft Side

Hi, I’m Mama Moo.

I’m a cute black-and-white girl with a gentle personality, a curious mind, and a serious appreciation for good food.

I can be quite shy at first, so I’m looking for someone who will give me a little time to settle in and get comfortable. Once I feel safe, you’ll start to see more of my sweet personality come out—including one of my favorite things: belly rubs!

I’m very curious and love exploring my surroundings, especially if there’s something to climb. I like to get up high and check things out from the best vantage point I can find. I enjoy playing too, although I can be a little particular about which toys earn my attention.

Food is definitely one of the fastest ways to my heart. I’m extremely food motivated, which also makes treats a wonderful way to help me build confidence and strengthen our bond.

I’m more of a medium-to-low-energy kitty, so while I enjoy some play and exploring, I’m also happy to spend time relaxing with my favorite people. I prefer to keep all four paws on the ground, but I love affection on my own terms—especially those wonderful belly rubs.

I'd be happy as your one-and-only feline or in a home with another friendly cat. As long as I have a loving family and a place where I feel safe, I'll be one happy girl.

Mama Moo was Rescued in Tracy, CA.

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Mia

Mia — A Gentle Girl with a Heart Full of Love

Hi, I'm Mia.

I may have started life in a feral cat colony in Fresno, but you'd never guess it once you get to know me. I'm a gentle, loving girl who just needs a little time to feel safe before my sweet personality shines.

When we first meet, I can be a bit shy and cautious. But if you're patient and let me settle in at my own pace, you'll discover a curious, affectionate companion who loves being part of your day. Before long, I'll be asking for belly rubs and butt scratches, purring up a storm, and making biscuits to let you know just how happy I am.

I have a playful side too! I love chasing toys, exploring my surroundings, and keeping an eye on everything from the top of my favorite cat tree. When playtime is over, I'm just as happy curling up beside you for a cozy nap or quiet cuddle.

I'm also known to have little conversations with my people. My soft, sweet mews are my way of saying hello or politely reminding you that I could use a little attention.

I'm happy to be your one-and-only feline companion, or I'd love to share my home with another friendly cat.

If you're looking for a kind-hearted kitty who will reward your patience with endless purrs, gentle companionship, and unconditional love, I just might be your perfect match.

Could your home be the happy ending I've been waiting for?

Follow Mia's foster adventures on Instagram @biscuitparty_

Rescued from a feral cat colony in Fresno, California.

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Miss Lizzie

Miss Lizzie — Gentle, Graceful, and Waiting for Her Person

Hello, darling. I’m Miss Lizzie.

I’ve had quite the journey—my person had to move out of the country and couldn’t bring me along. It wasn’t easy saying goodbye to the only home I’d ever known, but I’m holding onto hope that my next chapter will be just as full of love.

Let me tell you a little about myself…

I’m a beautiful chocolate point Snowshoe Siamese mix, with deep cocoa markings on my face, ears, and tail, and soft white fur dotted with the sweetest little spots. I may be a senior lady, but I still have plenty of curiosity and confidence. Since I've recently lost the home I've known since I was a kitten, I may need a little time and patience to settle into a new environment. Once I feel safe, you'll see my sweet personality begin to shine.

I’m a gentle, affectionate girl with a sensitive heart. I may not fall in love with everyone the moment we meet, but when I choose my person, I love with my whole heart. I'm hoping to find someone who understands that the very best relationships take a little time to grow. If you'll be patient with me, I'll reward you with quiet companionship, soft meows, gentle nuzzles, and the kind of bond that feels truly special.

When I’m in the mood for affection, I’ll politely let you know. I might sit in front of you and give you my sweetest little meow, or reach out with the gentlest tap of my paw to remind you that I'd really love a few pets. I especially enjoy back scratches and gentle affection, and I have a wonderful purr that's reserved for the people I trust most.

I also have a sensitive tummy, so we're still figuring out the food that agrees with me best. It's a small part of my care, and with the right routine, I'm happy and comfortable.

While I’ve lived around other cats, I’ve always preferred quality time with my favorite human. I'd be perfectly content in a peaceful home where I can be your cherished companion and soak up all the love you have to give.

If you're looking for a loyal friend who will quietly become your shadow, your confidante, and your devoted companion, I just might be the girl you've been waiting for.

Love,

Miss Lizzie

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Moonlight

Moonlight — Looking for Someone to Help Me Shine

Hi, I'm Moonlight.

Before Give Me Shelter rescued me, I was trying to survive in a feral colony in Fresno. Even though I'm a friendly cat, life outside wasn't kind to me. The other cats often picked on me, and I ended up with more than a few bumps and bruises. Thankfully, someone noticed that I belonged indoors, where I could finally feel safe.

I'm still learning that people are safe too.

I'm a sweet, gentle soul who likes to take things at my own pace. When you first reach for me, I might scamper away—not because I don't like you, but because I'm still building my confidence. Every day gets a little easier, and every day I become a little braver.

Once you've earned my trust, you'll discover my favorite thing in the world: affection. I melt into head scratches, lean into your hand, purr with my whole heart, and sometimes I'll even sneak into bed to curl up beside you for quiet morning or bedtime snuggles.

One of the best parts of my journey has been discovering that I can ask for love, too. Sometimes I'll walk right up to you when I'm feeling brave, hoping for a few pets or a cuddle. My foster says watching my confidence grow has been incredibly rewarding.

Even though I had a rough time with the cats outside, I absolutely love other friendly cats. They help me feel safe and show me that the world isn't so scary after all. I love sprinting through the house, chasing, wrestling, and making the cutest little trilling noises to invite my kitty friends to play. I'd be happiest with a playful, confident feline friend who can continue showing me the ropes and help me keep blossoming.

I'm the perfect mix of playful and cuddly. All I need is someone who understands that trust takes a little time. If you're patient with me, I promise I'll reward you with quiet companionship, happy purrs, and the joy of watching a once-shy little cat discover just how wonderful life can be.

I can't wait to meet you.

Love,
Moonlight

Want to see more of my journey? Follow my foster adventures on Instagram: @whiskers_in_waiting and @blocky_buds.

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Samba

Samba — Chatty, Affectionate, and Full of Purrsonality

Hello there! My name is Samba, and if you're looking for a cat who has something to say, I might be your purrfect match.

I'm a beautiful, petite Maine Coon mix with a luxurious long coat, a big personality, and plenty of charm. I weigh about 10 pounds, but I have all the wonderful traits people love about Maine Coons—I'm incredibly people-oriented, communicative, and devoted to my humans.

I was originally adopted from Give Me Shelter in 2021, and while my person loves me dearly, he is moving overseas and feels such a big move would be too much for me. So now I'm looking for a new family to love.

A lady never shares her age, so let's just say my records indicate I'm over 14—but that was only an estimate when I was first rescued so we don't really know my true age. My person swears I act much younger, and I have plenty of playful energy, curiosity, and opinions to prove it. I'm a wonderfully chatty cat who loves interacting with my people, and I'd be happiest with someone who enjoys carrying on conversations with their feline companion. I have a whole vocabulary of chirps, meows, and commentary, and I'm not shy about using it.

Don't let my love of sunny naps fool you—I also have a playful side! Wand toys are one of my favorites, and I really enjoy batting around my automatic interactive toy. After a fun play session, you'll usually find me stretched out in a sunny window watching birds, bugs, and all the neighborhood happenings.

Most of all, I'm an affectionate girl who loves being close to my people. I'll happily snuggle in bed, curl up beside you on the couch, soak up pets and head scratches, and remind you just how special it is to share your life with a cat. Whether it's a long cuddle session or just a quick scritch on the head, I'm always happy to receive a little love.

I eat Hill's Prescription Diet z/d dry food to help keep me feeling my best, and while I don't care much for brushing, I do enjoy being pampered with a grooming glove.

If you're looking for a loyal companion with a big heart, a playful spirit, and plenty to say, I'd love to meet you.

Love,
Samba

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Tess

Tess — Tiny in Size, Big on Personality

Don’t let my petite size fool you—I have a whole lot of love (and opinions!) packed into this little package.

I’m a friendly, confident girl who enjoys meeting new people and doesn’t spend much time hiding. Whether you’re folding laundry, working from home, or relaxing on the couch, chances are I’ll be nearby keeping you company. I love being part of whatever you’re doing, and I’m happy to supervise your daily routine from a comfy chair or by following you from room to room.

I’m also quite the conversationalist! I’ll happily chat with you about dinner, remind you when it’s time for treats, or simply tell you about my day. And when I’m in the mood for affection, you won’t have to guess—I’ll meow, hop up to meet your hand, or climb right into your lap to collect the pets I deserve.

While I enjoy attention, I also appreciate when people listen to my cues. If I’ve had enough petting, I’ll politely let you know with a gentle paw or soft nip (never a real bite). I’m looking for someone who understands that every cat has boundaries and appreciates clear communication.

I prefer a peaceful home where I can truly relax. Loud noises aren't my thing, and I'd be happiest as your one and only feline companion. I have so much love to give that I don't feel the need to share the spotlight with another cat!

My journey hasn't been easy. I lost my home when my person was deployed, and the shelter environment at Peninsula Humane Society was simply too stressful for me. Thankfully, Give Me Shelter stepped in to give me another chance at finding the quiet, loving home I've been waiting for.

If you're looking for a loyal little shadow who will chat with you, keep you company, and happily fill your home with love, I think we should meet.

Rescued from Peninsula Humane Society.

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Tucker

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