1. Home & Garden

Purrcy, my Adopted Polydactyl Kitten

Share Your Story: Adopted Shelter Kittens Success Stories

From Connie Goranson

Purrcy, my Adopted Polydactyl Kitten

Purrcy is home now.

Purrcy, my Adopted Polydactyl Kitten

Purrcy the gardener.

My Kitten's Special Personality Traits

I adopted my first polydactyl kitten, and he is a joy! His personality is more friendly than any other cat I've owned and he greets people much like a puppy would. He is extremely outgoing and loving. He'll sleep for hours, snuggling on the couch as I work on my laptop ~ I'm a teacher.

The Mutual Bond I Share With my Kitten

The love I get from 'Purrcy' is comforting. I had a death in my family two months ago, and he senses when I am feeling sad or lonely. He always wants to be close to me. My fifteen-year-old is also very affectionate, but not as perceptive as Purrcy is.

Significant Benefits of our Relationship

Because Purrcy is a kitten, he does lots of invisible hunting, scampering, and playing. He knows when it is time for me to come home and is right at the door, waiting. He also knows that when my radio begins playing in the morning, it's time to wake up! I will hear a soft chirrup in my ear.

Why I'd Do It All Over Again

Cats are dear creatures and we have such reciprocal affection for each other. The unconditional love a cat gives continues to amaze me, and I've had cats for years. Knowing that I can give a forever home to even one kitten gives me feeling I cannot describe.

What led me to adopt a shelter kitten

My eighteen-year-old tabby cat, Joshua, had died only two days earlier. He was such a beloved boy, and I didn't know when I would be ready to adopt again. Angel (my now fifteen-year-old cat) made the decision for me. She was going to the bedroom door and mewing the saddest little sound for two days. She missed Joshua so much. I had a day off and decided Angel needed a buddy sooner. I'm so glad I did, and they bonded very quickly.

How many visits did you make before adopting?

Only one! I had never heard of polydactyl cats before. I saw one cat who looked like Joshua but when we were introduced, he just looked at me as if to say, "Nope, not interested!" Purrcy's cage had a cute sign on it ~ I have extra toes! ~ so I asked to meet him. It definitely was love at first sight. I picked him up, and he rolled on his back for a tummy rub. He was purring like crazy! (Hence, his name). The technician was so sweet and said, "I think he's in love." I told her that I was too. I picked Purrcy up the next day, after he was neutered. It was the start of a wonderous relationship for Purrcy, Angel, and me.

Advice

  • Kittens need homes, and they need FOREVER homes. Make sure that you have the time commitment for your cat. He or she will need lots of love and attention.
  • Make sure, financially, you can support a cat. Most importantly, know that you can get your kitty medical help that starts with yearly checkups, vaccinations, etc.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.