Hello, Fans of Taylor Ham!

My name is Kim, and I am a long-time volunteer and cat correspondent at Tabby’s Place.  I have been asked to cover for many a cat over my 15+ years in feline correspondence at Tabby’s Place. It is always my pleasure to do so.

But this time, things were a little different.

I had not spent much time with the cat in need of my assistance.  Get on up there, I said to myself, and get to know this fine fellow better!

“Taylor Ham,” they say.  OK. How can you not like a cat named Taylor Ham?  With a cute name already in his favor, I headed to Tabby’s Place to make his acquaintance.

I did not expect to fall head-over-heals in love….

First of all, this cat just does NOT take a bad photo. There is just no way. Photos provided to help me in my introduction to this cat showed a happy tuxedo fellow who has seen some rough days in his past.  We here at Tabby’s Place already know THOSE days are behind him.

Taylor Ham just adores people. He liked me and wanted me to stay and visit. With a weak spot for cats afflicted with FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and having two diabetic felines at home, there was no way I was not going to bond with Taylor Ham.

He understands his name and is proud of it.

I am happy to say that this cat had a good month medically. His diabetes remains regulated and his appetite is good. He especially enjoys any treats that are offered by staff and volunteers. As with any diabetic, we must monitor the number of treats Taylor Ham receives, and how often he receives them.  But don’t tell HIM that!

Taylor Ham enjoys a good belly rub and is not shy about asking for it.  He will actually show you his belly and offer it up in anticipation. He enjoys his siestas on the window seats or cardboard cat scratchers.

I am proud of Taylor Ham’s participation in the Aged to Purrfection program and can see how spending time with this delightful cat would bring a smile to a senior citizen. Our Aged to Purrfection program involves cats visiting local nursing home facilities in a pet stroller. The use of a harness is also necessary for these visits; Taylor Ham is not fond of this part of the duty. But he is a trooper, and I am sure he will make whatever adjustments are necessary to continue his visitations.

I thought of him again as I was giving insulin at home to my two diabetics. Taylor Ham takes his insulin quietly, with no resistance or fuss. Just like my two senior diabetics do here. Managing diabetes in felines is not without its challenges. I was happy to see Taylor Ham doing his part to make it easier for his human caregivers.

Well, Taylor Ham, thank you for the opportunity to get to know you this past month. You made me “smile with my heart.” I look forward to our future visits and time together.

Thank YOU, dearest sponsors, for YOUR most generous gifts that keep Taylor Ham healthy, happy, and the very best feline he can be. We here at Tabby’s Place so appreciate your kindness to a little tuxedo cat with a fondness for belly rubs.

Stop by sometime this spring, and give him one!  He is sure to make you smile, too!

Your guest correspondent,
Kim