FAIRHOPE, Ala. — A cat rescued from the jaws of death nearly three months ago is still looking for a loving home. River, a 10-month-old, short-haired feline, was so named because he was plucked from the Bon Secour River on Oct. 4. It is believed he was hit by a vehicle on nearby County Road 10 before attempting to swim to safety.

“He needs a real home where someone wants him,” said Amy Boddie, who has been caring for River since surgery was performed to repair a shattered pelvis and a broken femur. “He needs an indoor home. He gets around, but not as well as a cat who hasn’t been affected this way. I’m afraid he wouldn’t be able to get away from something that wanted to get him.”

Although a stray when he was found, River was likely someone’s pet because he immediately used a litter box and was well behaved, even though he had suffered much physical trauma.

Boddie said, “He can’t scratch his ear with that leg, so he loves it when you scratch it for him. He shouldn’t have any more problems related to that (accident). He’s been given a clean bill of health.”

River was initially treated by Dr. Ann Rankin, who provided much free treatment. Dr. Alan Moore performed the surgery.

He has been neutered, had all his vaccinations and tested negative for feline leukemia and AIDS. The Fairhope Cat Coalition is currently raising money to cover all earlier treatment.

“He is marvelous — social,” said Boddie. “He gets in the laps of people he doesn’t know. He likes cats and dogs. He’s a very affectionate cat.”

River is a mixed breed, and is mostly black with a little white on his belly. Boddie said he gets “better and better every day.”

River is one of the nonprofit coalition’s many rescues. Although primarily known for trapping feral cats across Baldwin County and either spaying or neutering them before releasing them back into the wild, the group has been active in animal rescue efforts. It also offers a low-cost spay and neuter program.

If you would like to help the Fairhope Cat Coalition pay for River’s care, donations may be sent to 104 Ashton Court, Fairhope, AL 36532. Be sure to note on your check or money order that the donation is intended for River. All money given is tax-deductible.

For more information about the Fairhope Cat Coalition and its mission, or to express interest in adopting River, call (251) 367-1711.