Adoption Tails: Cecil

In 2018, Kelly Alward’s daughters saw a big, beautiful, but seemingly “Grumpy” tabby cat on the Gladwin County Animal Shelter’s website. 

“He was so sad & grumpy looking,” Kelly, of Gladwin, said. “His ears were flat down on his head in the picture, just like the ‘Grumpy Cat.” 

Kelly’s daughters were moving away to college the same week that she spotted the grumpy cat.

“They got him for me,” Kelly said, “as a ‘crazy cat lady’ starter kit.”

His adoption fee had already been paid and he was already neutered, so the adoption process for Kelly’s daughters was an easy one. 

In the beginning, Cecil was very standoffish. 

“Now his is very loving,” Kelly said. “He’s always on my lap and sleeps next to me every night.”

In the beginning, Cecil preferred her daughters over her, but now he only lets Kelly pick him up and love on him. She believes he knew in the beginning, Cecil knew that the girls had rescued him.  But now, he’s bitter, because they left him to go to college. In Cecil’s eyes, she thinks he believes  they abandoned him.  

Kelly is glad to have her not-so-grumpy cat in her life.

“I will always recommend adoption,” Kelly said, “especially older or feral animals. I found out that I needed this old man as much as he needed me.”

The Gladwin County Animal Shelter began operation in 1976, and is dedicated to serving the needs of the animals and citizens of Gladwin County. In 2020, the shelter cared for over 630 animals (despite challenges due to COVID-19), and continues to make every effort possible to ensure that all healthy, adoptable animals have safe and loving homes and the community practices responsible animal guardianship. Follow the Shelter on Facebook at facebook.com/GladwinAnimalShelter.

The shelter is always accepting donations, which can be dropped off at, or mailed to, 401 W. Cedar Ave., Gladwin, MI 48624. Volunteers can call 989-426-4579 or email gladwincountyanimalshelter@gmail.com to find out ways they can assist at the shelter.