What led me to adopting a shelter cat
I need to be cared for by a cat. My 14 year old companion Sally crossed the Bridge and left me here to carry on, so I went to the shelter to chat with a cat...any cat.
How many visits did you make before adopting?
I went every day for a week. I sat on a chair outside the cage, talking to the sad tuxedo cat with the runny nose and infected eye. I told him about my years with Sally and how I needed a kitty to care for me. Could we help each other? I made the offer and after a couple days he accepted by putting out his paw to touch mine. I truly believe we saved each other from a bad place. I call him Doodle. He's healthy and happy now, and we'll work on a full lifetime together.
Advice
- Just do it. Go to the shelter, talk to them all. And don't expect a 'boutique pet'. Remember the rescue works both ways. You are there because you need him/her as much as they need you.
- Be patient with them. Don't expect they will come when you call or do what you expect them to do. You can't know what they've been through, what they've experienced and are healing from. I don't know all that Doodle went through, but I know he was at the Rescue for a long time and is still a little 'shell-shocked'. He doesn't like being picked up and held, but bit by bit he let's me hold him longer as our trust and bond grows.
My Cat's Name and Age at Adoption
He loves to bite. If your kitty does this just be patient and gently discourage that by pulling away. Doodle nips pretty hard sometimes, even drawing blood on rare occasions. But he's starting to 'pull his punches' with teeth and claws. I know he loves me.
The Mutual Bond I Share With my Cat
We love our snacks and toys. Doodle has furry mice that he dunks in his water bowl (and then brings up on the bed!) and daily pulls the drain trap from the shower stall. Every night after dinner is 'cookie time' and he knows that word! They are turkey treats, but we call them cookies.
Significant Benefits of our Relationship
Since we are both still healing (him from a year in that cage and me from the loss of my Sally) we are life support units for one another. Doodle and I each had a rough year before we met.
Why I'd Do It All Over Again
I can't imagine life without an eager and grateful little face awaiting my return home each night, and the tummy rubs and praise we have for each other. Purring is wonderful therapy for the soul!
