Can you believe that summer’s almost over? I can’t. It’s been a great summer for me. I have enjoyed my time in Karina’s office. No matter how hectic things were outside this office, inside there was always a sense of peace. Here, I have always felt safe and protected. (You have to remember that Sally and I are never out at the same time.)
For the most part, my health has been good. There was, however, one strange incident which worried everyone. For some reason, I started behaving strangely; I started circling and growling in my crate. That night, I was kept crated, and a camera was installed so my behavior could be monitored. Nothing was observed that was unusual for me. There were only a few minor seizure-like episodes, and the next day I was back to normal. Of course, the medical staff observed me for 48 hours and thoroughly checked me out. I am happy to report that they couldn’t find anything wrong.
Lynn has come to visit me on several occasions. I usually greet her by jumping up and bumping her fist with my head. She calls that a “Hootzie” and seems pleased when I do that.
One time, she brought a cute wand toy and played with me. It was a nice short wand with a short red boa attached. I had fun swatting it. I also liked the way it felt when she stroked my head with it. She spent a lot of time petting me and talking to me. When she got up to leave, I followed her to the gate, hoping she’d take me for a walk in the hall. Instead of letting me follow her, she told me I had to stay but that she’d see me again soon. I would have preferred a walk in the hall. I got out once and liked it. I didn’t cause any trouble and don’t understand why I’m not allowed to take a little stroll in the hall. Although I love Karina’s office, a change of scenery might be nice.
On another one of Lynn’s visits, after I had spent time with her, I decided to seek out Sally’s friendship. I walked over to her crate and sat down in front of it. Sally immediately got up and swatted at me. Fortunately, I was not within striking distance. Lynn told Sally that I just wanted to be her friend. Now, why would Sally listen to her! Sally should trust me more; at least, we’re the same species! I guess I’m a glutton for punishment because I approached her again later. The result was the same! Why does Sally hate me? What have I done to her?
Even though Lynn visits me late in the day, there are still noises that startle me. Once, when Lynn was petting me, I heard a door slam, and I jumped. I can’t help it; loud noises scare me. I like it when it’s quiet. I can’t imagine going back and living in one of the more crowded, noisier rooms. I love living in Karina’s office. I am so glad she decided to let me live with Sally and her. I love it here, even if I do have to share the office with a cat that rejects my offers of friendship.
On Fridays, Lynn comes to spend time with Sally as part of the Enrichment Program. She always brings one or more toys and tries to get Sally to interact with them. She’s usually successful because Sally likes some toys. I usually watch what happens. One Friday, Lynn brought SmartyKat, a toy that Sally had seen before and had played with before. What did Sally do? She sat there, staring at the toy for ten minutes and then played with it. Lynn then took out a remote-controlled mouse. Sally took one look at it and walked to the gate, ignoring Lynn and the mouse. I guess that was Sally’s way of saying, “I’m finished. The session’s over.”
When Lynn plays with me, she always brings one of the wands. I guess she’s not sure how I’d react to the mechanical toys because they are a bit noisy. I like the wands, but I’m sure Lynn will bring one of the mechanical toys for me some day.
The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated on October 4th. Because St. Francis is the patron saint of all animals, many churches and animal clinics sponsor a blessing of the animals on that day. I don’t know what part St. Francis has played in blessing me, but I know what part you, dear sponsor, have played. By sponsoring me, you have truly blessed me by enabling me to live at Tabby’s Place.
With my health issues, I don’t think any shelter would have had the resources to care for me. At Tabby’s Place, I receive the best care and lots of love. If a cat doesn’t have a home and family of his or her own, Tabby’s Place is the best place to be! Thank you so much!
Love and prayers,
Bacon