Meet Shakespeare, the Dog-Sized Cat

If you've ever wanted one of those big Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest cats, but didn't want to deal with the maintenance and housekeeping chores that come with these hefty felines' long-haired coats, consider Shakespeare.

He's as big as a Maine Coon -- director Kelly Tracey estimates 24 pounds -- but has the easy-care coat of an American shorthair.

Shakespeare's no tubby tabby with a weight problem; he's simply a grey striped cat the size of a small dog, with a mild-mannered meow instead of a bark. When you hug this sturdy fellow, you get a solid armful of purring feline.

"He loves to give hugs," said Tracey. "He's a real love bug."

And then there are his eyes: big, light green and trusting, as if to say "I know my forever home is out there somewhere."

Shakespeare's tragedy is that he's not good with very small children. Though he's affectionate and playful with humans and also plays well with other cats, his owner surrendered him to the shelter many months ago.

Now, Shakespeare waits in his cage for the right person to come along and discover that he's a wonderful cat with a sweet personality, who will make the perfect housepet in a toddler-free home.

"He's very loveable," Tracey said as Shakespeare nuzzled a visitor to the shelter Friday afternoon. "He just needs to go to a home where there aren't small children."

Shakespeare is neutered, healthy and well-socialized with grown-up humans, so why not pay him a visit to see if he's the right cat for you?

The shelter has a get-acquainted room with toys, a scratching post and a chair for the two of you to share -- Shakespeare enjoys his play time, but after months of cage life he craves affection even more. Unlike many cats, he'll even let you rub his belly (see our video).

"He's got a big old Buddha belly," Tracey said.

Meet Shakespeare at the shelter Monday through Saturday from noon to 4:45 p.m.: 942 Hartle Court, Napa, (707) 253-4381.

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