The first time you see him, you can’t help but pause.
Sitting in his kennel at the Cleveland Animal Protective League, Duckphone has a face that makes you stop and smile.
His cheeks are huge, round, and almost cartoon-like, giving him a look that’s equal parts funny and sweet.
People walking through the shelter often find themselves laughing softly or whispering “wow” the moment they notice him.
A Cat With Cheeks Too Big To Ignore
But Duckphone is far more than just a pair of oversized cheeks. At only two years old, this rescue cat has already lived through hardship on the streets.
Despite the uncertainty of his past, his personality shines brighter than ever.
His presence fills the room with warmth, and his unique appearance is just the beginning of what makes him special.
When he was picked up as a stray and brought into the shelter, staff members immediately knew he wasn’t like the others.
His unusual face drew everyone’s attention, but it was his soft and gentle nature that truly captured their hearts.
Duckphone isn’t just another rescue cat — he’s unforgettable.
From Stray To Shelter Sweetheart
Life outdoors can leave animals guarded, but Duckphone never lost his trust in people. Instead of retreating into fear, he welcomes every hand that reaches out to him.
When volunteers or visitors stop by, he leans in close, purring deeply and asking for more affection. It’s as though he’s making up for all the love he missed while surviving alone.
Staff say he thrives on attention and has no hesitation when it comes to greeting new people.
A quick scratch behind the ears or a gentle chin rub is all it takes to win his affection. The bond he creates is instant, and everyone who spends a little time with him walks away touched by his sweetness.
Even his name has a story worth telling. In a shelter where dozens of animals arrive every week, naming each new arrival can be tricky.
One volunteer remembered a duck-shaped telephone they had once seen on a TV show, and just like that, Duckphone had a name.
It’s quirky, unusual, and surprisingly perfect for a cat who already stands out from the crowd.
Of course, not everything about his journey has been easy. During his veterinary exam, Duckphone tested positive for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
While some might hesitate at the diagnosis, the truth is that cats with FIV can live long, healthy lives with proper care.
For Duckphone, it’s just one small note in an otherwise bright future. His caregivers emphasize that he is happy, playful, and in great health despite the condition.
Hoping For The Home He Deserves
For now, Duckphone is safe. He enjoys regular meals, a warm place to sleep, and the constant affection of the staff who adore him.
His days are filled with cuddles, gentle strokes, and the kind of attention he longed for while wandering outside. Yet no matter how much love he receives at the shelter, it isn’t the same as having a family of his own.
What he needs most is someone willing to look beyond his diagnosis and see the gentle, affectionate soul inside.
His cheeks may grab attention, but his heart is what truly makes him unforgettable. Adopting Duckphone means welcoming a companion who will give endless affection in return for kindness and care.
Rescue animals often come with stories of struggle, but they also bring unmatched joy. Duckphone is proof of that. His journey shows that even after hardship, love and resilience shine through.
Duckphone may have once wandered the streets alone, but those days are finally behind him. With his big cheeks and even bigger heart, he has now found the family he deserves.
Today, he’s no longer waiting in a shelter — he’s curled up safely in a home where he’s cherished for exactly who he is: a sweet survivor who turned into someone’s best friend.