All shelter pets are more appealing in person than in their photo. It’s the sparkle in their eyes, the way their ears perk, the hopeful expression when they see a potential friend that shows that they’re special. That is especially true of eight-month-old, spayed Silk. A newsprint photo can’t capture a sweet star-white kitten, with a pink nose and pink-lined ears.

A photo can’t compete with one touch of Silk’s white coat; one moment of eye contact with her shy, seeking, golden eyes; one soothing rumble of a purr. That’s why Silk needs visitors. Silk can’t talk, but she can show someone everything about herself in a few minutes.

Silk can also show that she’s an effortless kitten. Some white cats are deaf. Silk isn’t.