Cat's Name & Age:
Ziggy Stardust ( originally named Elvis, which just would not do!). Age 18.
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Friendly to human strangers, laid back. More friendly to new cats as he age
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Very persistent when he wants something. Hates to have his claws clipped.
When, Where and How I Got My Cat
Ziggy was abandoned when he was only a few months old. Fortunately the apartment complex where this happened was cat friendly and a few residents put food out for him. He was so adorable, cuddly and friendly that everyone welcomed his visits - even the leasing office. I met Ziggy ( who was at the time named Elvis ) when he was 6 months old and claimed him for myself even though I had 4 cats of my own. We took walks through the apartment complex and he would check out every patio but always came to me when I called. How could I not love a kitty like that ? A few months later we moved back to my house and my other cats.
I'd Describe My Cat As…
Easy going and relaxed but confident that he is "in charge". When he joined our family he totally revitalized my then 10 year old male tuxedo and they played together like maniacs. Ziggy had a few years as the "only" cat after the other ones passed on and he became "glued to my hip". LOL. Three years ago he calmly accepted a 3 week old foundling and although I can't claim that he plays with her he is very tolerant. He has mellowed even more with age.
Advice
- Accept your kitty "as is". His personality may change with time but you can't force him to be anything other than what he is.
- Budget for good veterinary care. Aging companions need more frequent exams and sometimes specialized foods. It is money well spent.
- Learn your kitty's normal behaviors so you can determine if there is a problem. Cats tend to hide illnesses so as to prevent revealing weakness to a predator ( it's an instinctual thing - Ziggy has no idea what a "predator" might be , thank goodness !)
- Love , patience, and more love.
