Dear Colleen supporters,

I have to admit that as I’ve been visiting Colleen these past few months, something was bothering me. Every time I came into see her and snuggled down onto one of the chairs, Colleen would hop on over (because truth be told she is the friendliest of cats) and sit near me, and then it would happen. She wouldn’t be lounging there for a minute or two when she would hop down and make a move for the food. And there she would remain, rudely munching away (of course I was judging her by people standards), as I sat there waiting for her to return. And I mean she would do this every time.

The first few times it occurred, I thought it must be a coincidence. She must be starving, the poor girl, and this just happens to be her time to eat. Maybe they’ve just brought the food. But, no, I began to peek into her suite when I first arrived and there was the food–tons of it, sitting in the bowls. Colleen couldn’t be starving! In fact, Colleen does not look like she’s ever missed a meal in her life!

Then I thought maybe she’s one of these nervous eaters. As soon as someone comes to visit her, she gets all riled up–because she doesn’t know the person that well–her anxiety rises–and to compensate for that uncomfortable feeling–she eats. After all, as much as I cared for Colleen, I was only visiting her once a week. And I had only started visiting with her recently. She probably saw me as a bit of a stranger. Could that be it?

As the weeks went by, the eating behavior continued. I tried my best to make Colleen feel comfortable around me. We talked. I cracked jokes. I even took to grooming her coat so she would look fabulous–a bit of a spa treatment.

And then it happened. One day I arrived to see her, and as usual she hopped over to sit next to me. Our visit began, and she didn’t jump down to eat. Not once. WOW!

It was true then. Our relationship had notched up a level. Since then, our visits have been blissfully free of the time outs to eat. We talk and joke. I stroke and groom. Colleen purrs. We have become the best of friends. Yes!

On the medical front, Colleen did suffer one seizure this month. She fell over and began pawing the side of her mouth, so her medication was increased. Tabby’s Place is consulting with a neurological specialist, and Colleen’s condition will be continually monitored to be sure she is receiving the best of care.

In terms of her suite, since Cecille has been moved to Suite C, an atmosphere of calmness has prevailed. A new kitty, Tinkerbell, moved in recently, but she is a mellow soul, and all is well.

As we transition from summer into fall–my favorite time of year, Colleen and I want to thank you for your continued generosity. Without your support, Tabby’s Place wouldn’t be the wonderful sanctuary it is for cats.

Take care until next month.

PS: Come visit with Colleen for a very special event this month, when Tabby’s Place invites you to Catoberfest on Saturday, October 1st. Click here for full details.

Can’t join Colleen in person for the big day? You can still participate. Click here to bid in the Tabby’s Place cats’ silent auction, running now through September 26th. Whether you’re looking for trips, jewelry, gift cards, gourmet goodies or something utterly unique, the kitties have a prize just for you – and every penny you bid will help sweeties like our Colleen. Thank you so much!