Dear Friends of Olive,

Summer has most certainly arrived in Ringoes, New Jersey! It is hot and humid. That means that for those of us that participate in the singular pleasure that is expressing Olive, we sweat. It’s hard work for us and hard work for Olive.

Olive had an uneventful start to her month. However, during the last weeks she became suspect for a urinary tract infection (and started on antibiotics), received an enema for constipation, and vomited after biting into some of her daily medications. The insults kept on coming. Since Olive was refusing to eat her meds in pill pockets, we had to resort to pilling her. This is a two-person job. On one of these occasions, the team noticed that her mouth was a bit red and irritated. Next thing you know, Olive was scheduled for a dental exam (report to come next month).

So what unfolds when a tricky cat, like Olive, gets put on daily antibiotics? You hope that she will consume her necessary medications orally and resort to injections if necessary. In the case of Olive, that became necessary. One morning she bit into her foul-tasting antibiotic and is now refusing to eat most of her meds.

In terms of behavior, Olive has been more receptive to a few pets when the staff comes in after lunch. I don’t know if she associates this particular time of day with a safe time to interact with humans in the building, or if the change is connected to her freedom in the Lobby 24/7. Is it possible that Olive is “softening” as she matures?

Beyond human associations, Olive has made attempts at feline friendships recently. On one occasion she was spotted interacting with a fellow paraplegic, Valerie. Both ladies are usually quite independent, so this was a notable exception. Olive even took an opportunity one day to enjoy an afternoon nap in Cotton’s crate with Bellamy. The staff had to do a double-take as Bellamy is most often spotted with his special girl, Boobalah. This pair shares a special affection for one another, and we joked that Bellamy was “cheating” on Boobalah. But the proximity of Olive and Bellamy is nothing like the affection he shares with Boobalah (note the photos shared here).

Olive is far too independent to soften to the point of mutual grooming and snuggling, but even the most independent souls need a friendly face now and then. Speaking of friendly faces, Olive would like to share that she once again is recognizing human faces in her midst. As of Monday, June 7, those humans that are fully vaccinated may opt to shed their facemask. It is wonderful to once again see actual smiles and not just smiling eyes. Tabby’s Place remains closed to the public, but more volunteers are returning. Olive is confident that this means more opportunities for treats!

Your Guest Correspondent,
Lisa