LWhen it comes to cat companions, it doesn't get much better than Utsugi. She's everything most people would want. She loves people, likes kids, gets on well with other cats and tolerates dogs. She's only about a year old, but her exemplary personality already shines through with dazzling intensity. In fact, she was brought to Tokyo in the hope of showing some less well-socialized cats how they should act. With her full-on head bumps and a purr like a lawn mower, Utsugi is a joy to be around, and whether it's the soccer player or the flowering shrub her name brings to mind, this girl is one classy standout.

If you are interested in adopting Utsugi, email ARK at [email protected] or call 050-1557-2763 Monday to Saturday (bilingual) for more information. Tokyo ARK is an NPO founded by Briton Elizabeth Oliver. It is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned animals. All animals are vaccinated, neutered and microchipped. Prospective owners are requested to undergo a screening process.