Now his volunteer care team at Cats Protection in Surrey is appealing for pet lovers to take a second look at this friendly 13-year-old ginger that has been through a lot these past years.

This gorgeous big boy, who was named after another gentle giant, boxer Frank Bruno, was signed over to the nation’s leading cat charity when his previous owner homed a dog and Frankie didn’t take to the new family pet. 

Anxious and straying from home for days on end meant that Frankie couldn’t get the care or medication needed to manage a skin condition that was made worse by over-grooming. His fur became patchy and he developed tongue ulcers, so his owners made the sensible decision to seek help.

A year on and Frankie has blossomed in a loving foster home and his allergies are easily managed with a daily pill. But, as other needy cats find their forever homes, Frankie is still overlooked. 

And weighing in at 8kg, Frankie is not easy to ignore, which makes the problem even more frustrating for his carers at Cats Protection Epsom, Ewell & District.

Helen, branch coordinator, said: “When Frankie came into care, his lower lip was quite scabby and the fur on his hind legs and tail was poor but, thanks to the love and care he’s received, his fur has grown back beautifully and he's much healthier. 

“He is overweight but that shouldn’t be an issue with the right diet and exercise. I’m not saying that Frankie needs a personal trainer but he would benefit from someone who can keep an eye on his weight and manage his condition to avoid any flare-ups.”

Cats Protection is appealing for someone with a child and pet-free home with access to an enclosed garden where he can play and exercise, maybe shed some of that excess weight, but he would also suit a large indoor-only home.
“Like many cats, he looks out the window at birds and squirrels and chatters away at the pigeons but he’s so easily distracted and when something on the television grabs his attention he'll sit watching for ages, glued to the screen,’ said Helen. “He’ll only move to grab a snack before a long snooze on the sofa.” 

Frankie knows how to turn on the charm when he’s hungry and he has taken well to his new diet, aligned to his health issues, Helen said.

“He’s been really good with a healthy diet that has definitely helped his condition improve. In fact, he makes it quite clear when he wants something to eat. He’ll sit on a footstool and look at you with his Paddington stare. Now that he has improved so much, we’d like to help Frankie get back in shape.

“Everyone loves Frankie and he would make a delightful companion. We have nursed him back to health with pills and a big dose of love but it’s time for Frankie to move on to a new home.”

Don't let Frankie see another month go by without a home to call his own. Give him the chance to be the cherished pet he was always meant to be. Contact adoption@epsom.cats.org.uk  or 0345 260 1387 to learn more about the simple adoption process.