This handsome fellow with the odd name of Cucumber may not be the most nonplussed of pusses personality-wise, but his looks are cowol and his moves even more so. Life has given him a bit of a runaround, though. He lost his home to a fire back in 2009 when he was just a year old. He was rescued and found a new home but life there was no fun, as Cuke was bullied by the resident cat. He had to return to the shelter. Now, Cucumber has filled out into a fine feline and, at just over 5 kg, has been described as "a bit of a hunk — big, bold and beautiful." He's bold, that is, until a stranger comes along, and then he turns timid. Toys are his love, though, and with them he forgets any fears or woes and plays like crazy — a crazy little kook named Cuke.

If you are interested in adopting Cucumber, 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 re-homing abandoned animals. All animals are vaccinated, neutered and microchipped. Prospective owners are requested to undergo a screening process.