Fat Bear Week? 'Plump' NC Shelter Cat Jane Aims to Outshine Alaska's Heftiest Bears

As the annual Fat Bear Week captivates audiences with Alaska's bulkiest bears preparing for hibernation, a North Carolina feline named Jane is making waves of her own.

Weighing in at over 20 pounds, Jane isn't gearing up for winter slumber but is certainly embracing her ample proportions.

The SPCA of Wake County in Raleigh recently introduced Jane, highlighting her as a contender who could rival the heftiest bears in the competition.

Described as "plump, portly, and of ample proportions," Jane's belly jiggles with every rare trot, making her too much chonk for even the stretchiest cat sweater.

Despite her size, Jane's sweet nature has endeared her to the shelter staff.

At nine years old, she arrived at the SPCA in mid-September after her previous owner, who had rescued her as a stray kitten in 2016, could no longer provide the necessary care.

Jane's previous family ensured she felt loved, even leaving handmade blankets to accompany her to her new home.

Initially, Jane was nervous and hesitant to eat, but she has since settled in, showcasing her laid-back demeanor.

She's very food-motivated, only really running to the food bowl and back, which constitutes her daily exercise.

As Jane awaits adoption, the SPCA hopes her next owner will help her achieve a healthier weight.

In the meantime, the shelter has shared her story on social media, playfully suggesting she deserves a first-place win at Fat Bear Week.

Fat Bear Week is an online competition that runs through September 30, where people vote for their favorite bears as they bulk up for hibernation at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska.

Jane's story has garnered attention, and a family has taken her in as part of the SPCA's sleepover program.

They have until October 5 to decide whether to adopt her.

If she doesn't find a permanent home by then, the shelter plans to post her adoption profile on their website.

For those interested in adopting Jane or other cats, the SPCA of Wake County offers a paperless, appointment-based adoption process.

Prospective adopters can submit an adoption survey online to place a pet on hold and schedule an appointment with the adoption team.

The shelter is open for adoptions daily from noon to 6 p.m., seven days a week, and is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive in Raleigh.

As Jane continues to capture hearts, the SPCA remains hopeful that this charming, chubby cat will soon find a loving home.