Dear Friend and Sponsor,
Brr…. It’s cold outside! Since my last note, we had one heck of a snowstorm and single-digit temps. In preparation, the staff developed a detailed plan to make sure the cats were cared for and even built in a snowstorm sleepover into their plan!
Five staff members spent one or two nights at Tabby’s Place, and another two braved the storm to cover all their needs, including medicating, feeding, cleaning, and socializing.
Their dedication and kindness allowed the rest of the staff and volunteers to stay safely at home during the storm. Cats like Anka, Clifford, Peabody, and Lornadoone were thrilled to have oversized, cushy beds and blankets set up in their areas and even someone warm to sleep with. I’m pleased to tell you that all Tabby’s Place kitties made it through the storm safe and sound.
The week before the big snowstorm, the daytime temps were in the 40’s and even 50 degrees, so Chicken Nugget enjoyed hanging out in the solarium with his friend Emperatriz. They love to share the big dog bed because under the green blanket is an outdoor heated pad!
How do the cats get into the solarium, you ask? I think this is one of the most innovative features of the Tabby’s Place building! They go through a ceiling-high cat door and walk across the hallway through a Plexiglas tunnel! Each of the suites has a cat door that gives cats access to the outside.
In the original part of the building, there are plexiglass tunnels just below the ceiling connecting the inner suite with the outer solarium. During one of my recent visits, Chicken Nugget decided to model how this works so I could show you!
Interestingly, when Chicken first arrived at Tabby’s Place in October 2022, he and his friend Cornbread found the door to their tunnel, and they wouldn’t come out! At that time, they were not used to being around people, so they hid in the tunnels together during the day.
Fortunately, over time, they learned to trust us and no longer do this. I still love seeing Chicken Nugget in the tunnel, though, because it allows me to see his toes!! It’s not often you get to see cute Nuggie toe beans!
Chicken Nugget’s medical needs seem to be stable right now. The blood glucose monitor has been removed from his back. After reviewing the data, the vet team decided to increase his daily insulin dosage. He continues to lie his head on his water dish in the afternoons, so the vet team is running further tests to rule out other issues.
We keep fluffing Chicken’s blankets and showering him with love and attention. Please join me in keeping our hopes high for our dear friend.
Although Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this month, Chicken Nugget asked me to remind you that Spring is on the way and to keep your eyes open for crocuses and daffodils! He also told me to say thank you for supporting him.
With gratitude,
Your correspondent,
Allison
PS: Last week, Tabby’s Place held Your Feline Valentine, a special open house. The first hour of this wonderful event was reserved for sponsors like you to spend some extra time with their sponsored kitties.
Chicken Nugget had a wonderful time lavishing sponsors and visitors with whisker kisses and big head butts. I hope you were able to make it, but if not, know that you are welcome to visit us anytime!