There’s a lot of talk of hope and change in the news lately. Frankly, I’d like to talk about “change” myself. As in “change of address,” which I desperately need. “Change of lifestyle,” something I crave. “Change of heart,” which I wish some human out there will experience when they read this article and instantly decide that they need a cat.

And as far as “hope” and all that optimism folks are excited about, well, I hope for a new home. I hope someone understands that I’m a great guy, despite having a slight heart murmur (which medication takes care of). I hope you will give me a chance, despite the fact that I am nine years old. I’m mature and kind, a cat to be revered and petted.

My name is Cato, by the way, and I’m a Very Large Cat. You look at me and you’d think I’ve been lifting weights, working out, competing in wrestling matches. But no, I’ve taken no steroids and, even though I look like I could bat a hairball through your living room window, I don’t play baseball. As a true kitty couch potato, I’m into spectator sports.

I’m great with children and I love food, though the ladies here have put me on a diet. I like to play with toy mice and wrestle with other cats. Of course I use the litter box and the scratching post. I was well behaved in my previous home (they had to give me up due to allergies), and I love to be around people of all ages.

If I love you, I will sleep on you, sit on your chest and lick your ears. My one fault — and I do wonder why anyone would think this is a fault — is my affectionate personality. They tell me I’m a bit excessive with my love, especially when I drool with joy. I can’t help myself. My heart overflows with happiness, and one thing leads to another.

You can see from my photo how gorgeous I am with my beautiful white hair and tan splotches, but I don’t want to be admired from a distance. I hope one of you humans reading this will want a big, handsome guy like me.

Change my life. Please.

I’m at the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island, 506B Curtis Corner Rd. in South Kingstown, or call (401) 783-7606. We’re open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ANNOUNCING: our annual totally fabulous “Ulti-Mutt Tea and Dog Fashion Show” is coming up May 3, so reserve your tickets now by calling (401) 792-2233. We’re looking for an American Girl doll and clothes for a very special fundraising raffle basket, so if anyone sews AG outfits or has something to donate, please call us.

Kristine Rolofson is a volunteer with the Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island, Small Paws 4 You and Northeast Pekingese Rescue. She is the author of more than 40 novels.