WILLOW cannot spend her life behind bars - that's the message from a Worcestershire animal rescue shelter looking for a home for the 'special' tabby cat.

The four-year-old female has been in the care of RSPCA Worcester & Mid-Worcestershire Branch for two years.

Now the charity believes her rehabilitation is finished and she is ready for her forever home.

Geraldine Haynes, branch trustee, said: "We are looking for a very special home and very special people for this rather special girl.

"Willow is lovely, but she has very specific needs.

"Although she is not feral, we are seeking a rural home for Willow, in which she can live very much on her own terms and have space.

"She loves human company and is very friendly. In fact, she will seek out human company, but she is definitely hands off.

"Due to her unfortunate past, Willow will strike out with some force if she feels threatened and lots of things can worry her, mostly sudden noises and unknown scents.

"We feel that living outside, with the space to move away from a worrying situation, would be in Willow’s best interest, until she becomes accustomed and fully trusts her new family.

"She is in excellent condition, spayed, vaccinated and microchipped."

The branch is looking for a very rural home without children or visiting children and without other cats, as Willow does not enjoy the company of her own species.

If you feel you are the special people who could be Willow’s future family, please contact the branch on 01905 841354 or 07484 905707.