I'm after a bit of advice. Long story...
We were a two cat family, but the oldest/most dominant cat had to be PTS last summer. Situation was pretty happy, both cats got on, were happy in and out of the house and the eldest cat (the one we lost) maintained the territory for the nervy cat (who is a delight, but frankly, a wuss).
About two years ago, a feckless neighbour got two male kittens. Failed to do anything with them, they weren't neutered, vaccinated and then she moved around the corner without taking the proper measures to ensure that they stayed. Of course they ended up hanging around ours, and after countless conversations with her it became apparent she didn't want them back. One was friendly, engratiated himself upon us and our cats and we eventually rehomed him with my parents (and he's now the apple of their eye).
The other, however, was the most timid cat I've ever come across. It's taken me 18 months of feeding and coaxing to get near to him, and we made great progress (he even lets me pick him up and tickle his tummy). He won't come in however, and I've made a nest for him in our side return.
Meanwhile, our own cat, after losing his buddy, has lost all confidence and won't go outside. He follows me around constantly and seems to be really missing his friend and outside life. The stray attacks him whenever I can get him to go outside.
I wanted to include this stray in our family, but it's not working. I've really grown to love the scruffy old tom, but my boy's happiness has really suffered due to his presence.
If the stray hadn't been in the picture, we'd have got a kitten to keep our older cat company (he's a proper mother hen) and the kids would love one too.
I want this stray to have a good life, and it depresses me to see him outside in all weathers.
I've got to say, I'm considering handing him over to a cat rescue, though it would break my heart, I'd hope he'd be a lovely pet for someone very patient.
Advice, thoughts welcome. I hope this all makes sense...
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What to do about cat / stray and the kitten we'd like
15 replies
Moogdroog · 01/03/2017 16:15
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notanurse2017 ·
01/03/2017 16:17
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notanurse2017 ·
01/03/2017 16:58
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