Losing Bean and Embracing New Feline Encounters
In the heart-wrenching month of April 2022, I bid farewell to my cherished Turkish Angora, Bean, who succumbed to cancer. My heart longed for another whiskered companion, but emotionally, I was in a place of pause.
Neighborhood Feline Friends: Porch Cat and Pixie
In our friendly neighborhood, we have a handful of cats that meander through gardens and sidewalks. The local residents, myself included, extend kindness by offering them sustenance. Among these free spirits, there’s an orange-striped fellow we’ve affectionately named Porch Cat. Not far behind him came Pixie, a seemingly independent yet intrinsically connected cat to Porch Cat. On rainy days, our home becomes their shelter, with both cats occasionally stepping in for warmth and comfort.
Pixie’s Mysterious Motherhood
Pixie began showing signs of motherhood with her visibly expanding midriff. However, it wasn’t long before her belly returned to its slim form. Perplexed, I scoured our home in search of any potential hidden kittens but turned up empty-handed. I resigned to the thought that she might have chosen a covert outdoor spot for birthing.
Yet, a surprise awaited. On a regular day, while rummaging for twine in the craft room, an unexpected sight met my eyes: four tiny kittens, neatly tucked behind a bookshelf I had overlooked!
Rapid Response and The Kittens’ Advent
Immediately springing into action, I crafted a makeshift sanctuary using boxes and towels for the young ones. When Pixie later made her usual appearance at our back door, a heartfelt reunion took place as she met her little ones.
Fast forward a few weeks, these vibrant nine-week-old kittens have taken over our home’s corridors and hearts. Concerned about their well-being and the neighborhood’s feline population, we’ve committed to having them, along with Pixie, spayed or neutered soon. Introducing the adorable quartet: white-furred Trouble, sleek black Nero, striped beauty Risca, and the captivating Gabriel.
Future Feline Plans
While Risca and Trouble have already carved a permanent niche in our hearts and home, I secretly harbor the hope of keeping all four. Now, the playful challenge lies in persuading my husband to this delightful idea!