MAJOR GARRETT:
00:00:01
Too often, the golden years are lonely years, and not just for people, but CBS's Chip Reid may have found a way to change all that.
CHIP REID:
00:00:10
At a recent cat adoption fair in Northern Virginia, the kittens got all the love, while the senior cats were largely ignored. Sadly, cats who lose their human companions are often euthanized or spend the rest of their lives alone. Riley is 12.
CATHY AWAD:
00:00:26
We haven't had any applications on him at all.
CHIP REID:
00:00:28
None?
CATHY AWAD:
00:00:29
And he's the best cat. He loves to give kisses.
CHIP REID:
00:00:31
Oh, Riley. You need a forever home. Cathy Awad is the founder of Fancy Cats, which has placed more than 25,000 cats-- many through its program, Senior Cats for Senior Laps.
CATHY AWAD:
00:00:44
Most seniors just want companionship. A kitten is not going to do that.
CHIP REID:
00:00:48
It's a growing trend. There are now at least 56 shelters in 35 states that have a pets-for-seniors program for cats and senior dogs, who also face difficulty getting adopted. Bonnie Paul has five senior cats, including a 12-year-old Gracie. The day we were there, she decided she was simply not going to perform for that camera. But normally, Paul says, they're all very affectionate. What is the best thing about senior cats?
BONNIE PAUL:
00:01:16
I think the love they give you.
CHIP REID:
00:01:18
And there are plenty of senior cats like Riley just waiting for their chance to fall in love. Chip Reid, CBS News, Centreville, Virginia.
MAJOR GARRETT:
00:01:29
Chip Reid, thank you.
