A Norwich animal sanctuary has made a special plea for one of its favourite animals – a one-eyed cat called Rodney.

Norwich Evening News: Rodney the cat has been looking for a home for six months and is one of the shelter's longest staying residents. Photo: RSCPA NorwichRodney the cat has been looking for a home for six months and is one of the shelter's longest staying residents. Photo: RSCPA Norwich (Image: RSCPA Norwich)

Rodney has been looking for a home for the past six months, making him one of the longest residents at the RSPCA sanctuary in Norwich.

The five-year-old male tabby has so far not found the right match but is desperate for a loving family.

A spokesman for the Norwich RSPCA said: 'Rodney is one of our longest stays and has been patiently waiting for his new family and home for six months.

'If there is a family out there that feel they would be the one for him please get in touch.

'He has lost an eye although this does not stop him getting about like any other cat.'

Specialists at the shelter say Rodney would be better in a home with teenagers over 14 years old and a family who have the time to look out for him.

What to consider before taking on a pet

-Before you decide to adopt any animal, it is important that think carefully about whether you are able to take on the responsibility. Here are some things to think about from the Norwich RSCPA:

-Do you live near a busy or well-used road? Cats are naturally curious creatures and can explore up to a five-mile radius in a day. Keeping them safe is essential and a busy road/junction nearby can spell trouble. An 'indoor' cat (meaning that they do not go outside for health reasons) may be more suitable if where you live may be unsafe for an 'outdoor' cat.

-Will the cat have immediate unaided access to shelter? The cat will need access to shelter either through a cat flap or from someone being at home regularly in the instance of bad weather or if it faces danger or is hurt.

-How long will the cat be left for? Cats can be rehomed to homes where people are not at home all of the time but this cannot be longer than eight to nine hours or a normal 'working day'.

-Kittens under six months cannot be rehomed where they will be left for more than four hours.

-Are there children in the home? All RSPCA cats will have a guide with the minimum age for children they can live with.

-Do you rent or own your property? If you rent, you will need to provide proof that you can have a cat/cats at the property.

For more information go to www.rspcanorwich.org.uk/adopt-a-cat

The Norwich RSPCA adoption centre can be contacted on 0303 040 1565 from Tuesday to Saturday between 11am-4pm or at www.rspcanorwich.org.

Have you got an animal story? Email george.ryan@archant.co.uk