When I visited that first day there were, as usual, cages full of kittens, entire litters. I slowly and carefully looked at them, pet some of them, cooed at them, admiring their adorable tiny features and array of colors, their playfulness and squirming tails. Then I walked by one large cat who was nearly a year old. His cage could hardly contain him at his robust 14 lbs. Someone had named him Peanut Butter, but his beautiful, long hair was bright white, with black and gray markings. "PB" had a gray and black ringed tail just like a little raccoon!
I stopped to say hello to the big guy. "Hi there," I said, "Look at you in that little cage," I sighed. I just didn't like him to be in there. But his infectious energy and enthusiasm shined through in the brightest green eyes as he looked up at me. I thought I would raise a kitten, but then it occurred to me to wonder why? I thought this over and began to move past PB, when one elegant, white paw struck out at me twice! He attempted to stop me, to tap me with his paws!
That one moment in the shelter is one I will not ever forget-when Dorian reached out a paw to swat me. It stopped me from passing him by, changing our lives forever. Dorian communicates with me in so many ways, vocalizing being onl y one. He is gentle and playful and has shown me uncommon loyalty.
For the first time in the history of this site, the Cat of the Week was chosen from the monthly cats featured in the "Show & Tell" format on this site, which in June focuses on adopted shelter cats. Dorian's story was so captivating that it was an easy choice. Although I usually don't spotlight photos with people, I made an exception here, as Dorian's second photo was much too small for this format.
You may submit your own photo and story about an adopted shelter cat by using this form.
Comments
What a wonderful story. I myself have 2 shelter cats and it was a daunting task to try to figure out which ones to take home that day. I wanted them ALL. But i think THEY choose YOU. It is wonderful to hear when an animal finally finds their forever home.
WOW! We are proud to be included in this feature, and I am proud as ever of my Dorian! He’s big and fluffy and adorable; of course I have many more pictures on our blog
Thank you, Fran, for using our story!
What a sweet article. The owner and cat seem so comfortable and loving together. I do now believe cats choose you and what a great pair.
What a great, “touching” story that makes anyone who reads it want to know Dori and his adopted owner. Both have made a serious commitment which is what it takes to truly care for a pet and to get the benefits of having a pet, as it’s caretaker. Hurrah for caring and loving!