This is Chorogi, a beautiful cat, almost a year old with a classic Japanese pattern but an extra-long tail.

She is, oddly enough, named after the Japanese word for a Chinese artichoke that happens to look strangely like a larvae. But Chorogi is no grub! She has, however, been in the shelter since January, and because she's shy, is reluctant to come out for visitors. Thus she is often overlooked by the many people looking for "lap cats" (nearly an oxymoron). But Chorogi, in her shyness, is classic cat.

The way to her heart is through toys and food, both of which she loves. She also loves other cats and would surely come out of her shell with another friendly feline she could trust and call her pal.

If you are interested in adopting Chorogi, 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.