Dear Friends of Tux,

Tux and I wish you a very lovely spring as everything is awake and blooming in Ringoes, NJ (and that includes our dear tuxedoed gentleman cat)!

There is absolutely no denying that Tux enjoys the sunshine. As the earth rotates and the sun shines on New Jersey, Tux is drawn to the windows once more. You will note that every single photo in this update is of Tux enjoying a sun-filled window seat.

In the last month, the feline social life that surrounds the Administrative Assistant workstation in the Community Room has blossomed. As Tux’s close friend, we have been kept in the know regarding the arrival of new friends, but it seems that those friends are no longer temporary visitors, but permanent residents. It is a wonder that Ginny is able to get anything done as 80% of her desk is taken over by cat beds overflowing with felines.

Tux loves friends, but he loves sunshine even more. This month I frequently found Tux basking in the sunshine.

The return of warmer weather means that stroller walking will soon become a more regular routine for the cats. Tux always enjoys the warm sun and light breezes on his fur. He is happy to share news of some novel outdoor sights and resting spots at Tabby’s Place.

One of the areas of our new expansion houses all the strollers and opens to a newly paved stone plaza with planting beds and a series of resting benches. The benches were just installed, and soon the plaza will be prepped for the incorporation of engraved pavers. Tux is very excited to be among the first to explore the plaza and soak in the sun.

Medically, we became a bit concerned about Tux this month when he was noted to be drinking more than usual. Initial tests suggested that his blood glucose levels were elevated, so he got daily blood glucose checks for about three days. His levels were borderline elevated, so the vet team decided to discontinue the low dose of steroids that he was on for his gum inflammation. We know that long-term steroid use can lead to the onset of diabetes. In two weeks, the medical team will recheck Tux’s blood glucose levels to see if they level out as the steroid leaves his system.

Tux received a full physical exam during this time and while most everything was as one would expect, the veterinary team heard a stage III heart murmur and a pronounced arrhythmia. We already knew that Tux had heart disease, so we will continue to monitor for any additional changes. Thanks to you, Tux will continue to receive the very best of monitoring and medical care as he enjoys his golden years in the sunshine of Tabby’s Place.

Tux and I want to remind you to take a moment from your day to go outside, take a deep breath (hopefully without too much pollen), and enjoy the warmth of the sun. As you soak in the warmth, think of Tux and know that he feels the warmth of your love each and every day, with or without a windowsill.

Your Correspondent,
Lisa