Nicki hasn't had the best ninth year of life. The eight-kilo tabby was surrendered to the RSPCA when her family moved out of Canberra, and to make matters worse, she was put on a diet.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But you could give this full-figured feline a new home for just $29 this weekend, as the RSPCA kicks off its new "clear the shelters" promotion today.
A spokeswoman for RSPCA ACT said "lines were already out the door" on Friday morning at its Weston shelter, which had run out of available kittens within the first two hours of opening.
All creatures great and small, from dogs and cats to horses, chickens and ferrets come under the discounted fee, which includes de-sexing, micro-chipping and vet-checks.
RSPCA ACT chief executive Tammy Ven Dange said this was the first time shelters across the country had coordinated an adoption drive, after a successful promotion in NSW last year, and they were expecting record adoptions nation-wide.
"What we didn't anticipate locally was how ready owners were willing to get in early and pay full price to ensure that they were able to adopt animals this week ahead of the special," Ms Ven Dange said.
But, while some states like NSW and the ACT are honouring the mark-down for horses, others such as Victoria have more exemptions in place.
The RSPCA ACT spokeswoman said, while there were no horses at its shelter right now, there was a host of dogs and cats along with doves, pigeons, rabbits and a rat named Donut.
There are also a fetching clutch of Chinese Silky Bantams and a few roosters up for grabs, including Oscar the Grouch who is looking to share his life and trash can with some lady hens (but don't let the name fool you, he's a big softie).
The adoption drive runs until Sunday, February 25, and the usual adoption procedures will apply to ensure each animal is matched to the right family.
For those who miss out, Ms Ven Dange suggests checking online and returning in the weeks ahead.
"There will always be more animals...needing a second chance at a forever home unfortunately."
Now, before you race off to fill your car with puppies, remember to seriously consider if adoption is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
Nicki is looking for a real commitment.
