The Shoalhaven Animal Shelter described Cheeto as a shy but affectionate ginger cat, and when Ray Pearson picked up the Wednesday paper and saw the lonely boy staring back at him, he knew it was meant to be.

Mr Pearson and his wife have always kept cats and dogs, and have recently found their home empty of a four-legged friend.

After cat-sitting for friends in Moss Street, they resolved to bring a new pet into their lives.

"We didn't think much more about it until I got the South Coast Register and there was his photo," Mr Pearson said.

"I rang the number and made an appointment to see if he as still available , and he was, so we paid for him and took him home."

Mr Pearson said Cheeto, who has been renamed Gorgeous George by his wife, has settled in well.

He sleeps at the end of their bed and enjoys cuddling up on the lounge to watch tv.

Although he is startled by new people and loud noises, Mr Pearson hopes with plenty of love Gorgeous George will develop more confidence.

"He's a very affectionate little fellow - it's lovely to have him," Mr Pearson said.