In the heart of Cleveland APL, amidst tabbies, calicos, and torties, one feline standout recently stole the spotlight, captivating hearts and sparking a frenzy of adoration.
Meet Duckphone, a young tomcat with an unmistakable feature: his enormous cheeks. Rescued and brought to the shelter in March, Duckphone’s laid-back demeanor and cool attitude quickly endeared him to shelter staff and visitors alike.
Named after a quirky resemblance to a mallard duck-shaped phone from the MTV show “Jersey Shore,” Duckphone’s distinctive charm didn’t go unnoticed. As his photo made its rounds on social media and the APL’s website, the response was overwhelming, with thousands of comments pouring in within days.
Among those captivated by Duckphone’s charm was teen April Walsh, who was instantly smitten by his adorable appearance. Despite the odds, April and her mother, Brandi Beddorak, were fortunate enough to find Duckphone still available for adoption.
But Duckphone’s journey didn’t end there. With his notable cheeks also serving as a sign of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), April and Brandi were undeterred, knowing that FIV+ cats like Duckphone can lead long and healthy lives with proper care.
Bringing Duckphone home, April and Brandi witnessed his popularity soar even further. From local pet photographers to features in Cleveland Magazine and The Dodo, Duckphone’s unique charm continued to capture hearts and headlines.
With demand for updates on Duckphone’s adventures growing, April cleverly launched his own Instagram page, attracting over 3,000 followers affectionately known as “the ducklings.”
Yet, amidst the fame and fanfare, Duckphone remains grounded, giving back to the APL by spotlighting other FIV+ and FeLV cats in need of homes.
And while Duckphone may choose the occasional moment to retreat from the spotlight, opting for the comfort of family couches over the limelight, his endearing presence continues to remind us of the resilience and charm found in rescue cats.
So here’s to Duckphone, the cat with the enormous cheeks and an even bigger heart, proving that true beauty and impact come in all shapes and sizes.
