Cats in one foster home welcomed an unexpected long-eared guest they found outside—and quickly noticed how much he enjoyed their company. A few months ago, the Montreal rescue group Chatons Orphelins Montreal was contacted about a small animal in urgent need. Even though the organization specializes in cats, they didn’t hesitate to help when they learned a vulnerable rabbit was struggling to survive on his own.
ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
An orange bunny had been abandoned and left to fend for himself. He began wandering through neighboring gardens, searching for anything to eat and a safe place to hide. “He seemed lost and eventually just curled up and stopped moving,” the rescue told Love Meow. As soon as a volunteer heard about him, she headed out to check on the little one and see whether he could be saved.
He was found abandoned outsideChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
When she approached, the bunny didn’t try to run. He was exhausted and in rough shape, his coat matted with burrs and dirt, and he was far too thin to cope with the cold. The rescuer gently scooped him up, placed him in a carrier without any struggle, and brought him home. There, she set him up in a quiet room, examined him more closely, and realized how urgently he needed care and comfort.
AnatoleChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
They named him Anatole. With guidance from the rescue and support from experienced rabbit owners, the foster family quickly gathered supplies—proper food, bedding, and grooming tools—to give him a fresh start. After a careful clean-up and removal of the painful knots in his fur, Anatole perked up. Over the next days, he began eating well, putting on weight, and regaining his strength, showing everyone just how resilient he could be.
He received a visit from some feline friendsChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
As Anatole settled in, he revealed a loving, people-oriented personality. He adored head scratches, leaned into gentle pets, and even made soft “purr-like” tooth-purring sounds to show his contentment. Much to everyone’s surprise, he was also completely at ease around cats. Instead of shying away, he seemed happy to share space with them and watch their antics from the comfort of his pen.
Anatole enjoys having cats around and doesn’t mind sharing his playpen with themChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
He was curious about his feline roommates and gladly observed whatever they were doing. He even let the cats nibble on his hay without complaint. Chip, one of the kittens, proved to be a perfect match for Anatole—both in personality and, amusingly, in color. From the moment they met, the pair behaved like old friends, choosing to hang out, explore, and relax together throughout the day.
Chip and AnatoleChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
With the cats nearby, Anatole seemed to pick up a few “feline” hobbies of his own. He began sharing the cat tree with the foster kittens, perched at the window to watch passing cars and neighbors. Perhaps the kittens think he’s just a funny-looking cat with extra-long ears and a tiny tail—either way, the companionship has clearly boosted everyone’s confidence and comfort.
Anatole and Claudie enjoyed their time on the cat tree, watching neighbors through the windowChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
Playtime quickly became a highlight for Anatole. He zoomed around his pen, did little hops and parkour over his toys, and stood up on his hind legs whenever treats appeared. He also loved rearranging his tunnel and chew toys—an interior designer in the making. Side by side with Claudie, a kitten rescued from the outdoors, Anatole could happily spend long stretches gazing out the window at the quiet street below.
ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
He even cozied up to Booboo, a mini house panther who was charmed by Anatole’s gentle affection. The two would sit shoulder to shoulder by the window, quietly watching the neighborhood together. Outside may be cold, but inside their foster home, these friends enjoy warmth, safety, and a steady routine.
Anatole and BoobooChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
The cats have fully embraced their long-eared buddy, and Anatole’s calm confidence seems to rub off on them too. Now that he’s healthy and thriving, he’s ready to find a forever family in Montreal—one that will cherish his sweet nature, indulge his love of gentle pets, and keep him surrounded by the companionship he clearly enjoys.
ChatonsOrphelinsMontreal
Share this story with a friend. You can see more of Anatole and his feline pals on Chatons Orphelins Montreal’s Instagram and on Facebook. Here’s hoping his next stop is a loving, permanent home.
