Dear Friends of Tux,

Let me begin by saying thank you for the many floofy beds that we received this last month in response to our post about their popularity and high demand. I believe we now have multiple beds in the Community Room and at least one in most other rooms at Tabby’s Place. They really are a hit with every kitty, and now there are plenty to go around (even when some are being laundered).

Tux has been in good health this month aside from a bout of constipation. This is not unknown for Tux as his previous injuries left him with a constricted pelvic opening. He is on daily medications, but every now and then, things can still get a little backed up and uncomfortable. Our vet team jumped in and gave him just what he needed—an enema. Did you know that Tux has been known to purr through these procedures?

Tux and Indiana seem to have sorted out their differences. This is good for many reasons and has given Tux time to think about other relationships and social responsibilities. You see, in addition to his human fan club, Tux has a growing club of young feline groupies.

Learning from Uncle Tux is the best way to learn. Many of the cats that move into the Community Room do so because they need extra socialization. Since there are several staff work areas in the Community room, the space provides more opportunities for human interaction. Tux has always been here to provide feline friendship to newcomers.

When shy Nick, who looks like a mini-Tux, moved into the Community Room in January, he was determined to win Tux over through persistence and determination. Nick would follow Tux around and rub against him. Tux wasn’t sure what to make of this new youngster with no sense of personal space. Nick, like Tux, has an uneven color pattern on his face (and one front paw) that gives him an air of the peculiar. His whiskers are a little wild and hint at his mischievous curiosity. He’s a handsome young guy. He loves to eat, play, and hang out with other cats. Now, thanks to Tux and our patient staff and volunteers, he’s learning to trust people.

When little Cicada moved into the Community Room, she was immediately enamored with Nick and would follow him like a shadow. Since Nick followed Tux around, Cicada also followed Tux around. And then she too began to learn from Uncle Tux that people provide comforting pets. Cicada was curious but nervous about human interaction. The staff soon learned that if she was resting near Tux, she would accept pets from people. Pet Tux, pet Cicada. The sweet little girl made such great progress that she found herself a forever home with two older cat-loving kitties to continue her education.

While Tux was initially reluctant to engage young Nick, the little charmer won him over in the end by sharing in one of Tux’s great joys—napping. Now frequently we find Tux resting in a huddle of furry friends. **I should note that Sammy was also adopted since this photo was taken. She has gone to live in a house with other shy cat-loving kitties including Pancake from Suite C.**

It is exhausting to be a role model for others. Tux has embraced his role as educator, but he continues to appreciate a good nap in a quiet sunny spot. He knows how to savor these moments of peace and hopes that you too will find your peaceful, warm, and sunny spot this winter when you need it most.

Your Correspondent,
Lisa