Shelter's Plea As Special Needs Cat's Obsession Threatens To Take Over

Newsweek

04-05-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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A one-year-old cat with an unusual passion is still searching for her forever home from a shelter in Austin, Texas.
Lamby, affectionately dubbed the "Lambinator," has taken up residence at Austin Pets Alive!'s (APA!) Cesar Chavez location, where her passion for stuffed lambs has been melting hearts.
The black-and-white tuxedo cat has won over shelter staff, and Instagram followers alike, with her infectious energy, playful spirit, and unusual obsession: collecting plush lamb toys.
In a viral photo shared by APA! on Instagram, Lamby was lounging regally amid her ever-growing flock of sheep-themed toys.
"Lambinator came to APA! from a local rescue partner in August of 2023 with a history of a tail pull injury (lower motor neuron injury) which has caused her to have an abnormal gait in her hindlimbs and she is also incontinent due to this," APA! told Newsweek.
But Lamby isn't just a pretty face with a quirky hobby. "She has a happy and enthusiastic energy that is contagious," the shelter said. "She is a one-cat welcome committee to all visitors, meeting newcomers at the door and eager to introduce herself to everyone who comes by."
The Lambinator, or Lamby, enjoying the company of her favorite thing—stuffed lambs.
The Lambinator, or Lamby, enjoying the company of her favorite thing—stuffed lambs.
Austin Pets Alive! APA
The young cat loves to run, climb, and splash around in water, she is just as comfortable scaling heights as she is curling up in a warm lap—or even perched on your shoulder. She adores both kids and adults, is even friendly with big dogs, and other cats. "She purrs up a storm each time she's picked up," the shelter said.
Lamby does need some specialist care. She came to the shelter with a tail pull injury that left her incontinent. But with a simple daily bladder expression, which is said to be easily done with no vet experience required, along with her signature washable diapers, she handles her routine like a pro, and shelter staff say it doesn't slow her down one bit.
"It is kind of heartbreaking to think that she could be passed over because she needs some special care. Lamby has so much love to give, a sunny disposition and a happy temperament, and she simply needs wonderful people to share it with," the shelter said.
Still waiting for her perfect person, APA! explained: "Her ideal home is someone who is patient and willing to learn how to express her. Also, a home where she can transition easily. Lambinator does well with kids and would likely do well with other furry friends. She would excel in any home with people able to open their hearts to a cat who needs just a little extra care."
After the APA! team shared Lamby's story on Instagram last week, it quickly amassed thousands of comments as people rushed to send their love to the cat. "Awhh if I lived closer I would bring her home immediately," said Floreyrey.
While Instagram user Msrebeccasweat commented: "My cat is obsessed with Lammies too! Hope Lamby finds a home soon!"
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