Written by Naadira Omar
Professional photography by Nat Gold ZA
My husband, Ikhlaas, and I adopted Cinnabon just about three months ago. Since then she's melted into our lives - and hearts!
A heart for cats
Throughout my childhood I've always taken in feral cats that used to roam around the neighbourhood and won them over through food (in which I've always been successful).
My husband and I relocated from Ireland back to Cape Town in April and I've been on his case to get a cat ever since. I've always had a soft spot for feral cats and I didn't want to get a kitten but rather an older cat. I've always felt older cats are often forgotten and overlooked at adoption centres and most of them spend their whole lives without being adopted.
I actually went to a few cat rescue places around Cape Town and met beautiful cats and saw the amazing work these organisations do. However, when I contacted Capetonians Against Animal Abuse (CAAA), I was told about this rescue cat that was recently taken in.
A sweet connection
A picture was sent to me and, with just that one picture, my heart was won over. I felt a connection with Cinnabon immediately. Cinnabon had a few tooth extractions done and funnily enough, being a dentist myself, I felt more connected in a way.
We named her Cinnabon because of her warm, swirled coat which has a mix of rich browns, soft creams, and golden tones that look just like the layers of a cinnamon roll. Being an avid baker as well, I felt this name just suited her perfectly!
Adopting Cinnabon
When Cinnabon first came into our home she was a very anxious cat, always easily getting scared of noises and any movement. She used to hide under the couch and bed for hours. Knowing her history of being rescued from a factory and not being treated well, we understood that she needed to first gain our trust and we had to show her our love from a distance and in doses. This is common with feral cats since care and human affection is unknown to them. In just over a month, with time, patience and gentle care, Cinnabon opened up to us.
Cinnabon has blossomed into a very loving and playful cat! She's very intelligent and is attentive to words we say to call her for food, treats and wet food.
She absolutely loves to sunbathe. This is her favourite activity to do after eating in the morning and in the late afternoons. Her main way of showing us affection is though licks! She also has her favourite green blanket and will only sit on the bed if her blanket's there. She loves her playtime and her two wand toys. Cinnabon is very vocal and doesn't have a typical meow, which makes her even more unique.
She hardly hides when hearing any noises anymore, and also recently allowed us to brush her without getting scared.
Today, Cinnabon has traded alleyways for soft blankets and sunny spots. She still has her fierce spirit, but she's also found comfort in cuddles, naps, and quiet companionship.
Adopting a former feral cat like Cinnabon is a reminder that love and safety can transform even the most guarded hearts. Every small step, whether it's a purr, a nap by your side or just a look of trust, feels like a victory.
She's proof that every cat, no matter where they start, deserves a chance at a peaceful home.
