Prowling Around, and Finding Gracie

Much like a human partner, my pet and I will vacation together, support each other through health ups and downs, comfort and delight each other, and sleep together. So, although I could love and enjoy any pet – I have learned that it nonetheless pays off to find the right pet for me. For example, a dog that needed a 5-mile walk daily would be a rather difficult fit for me.

There are times that life presents a pet that’s more than a good companion; it’s more of a soul-sister or -brother. The pressure for me to find the perfect pet is silly, really, because they are all good. When my husband and I looked for a new cat, I was worried that I wouldn’t find THE ONE. Trying to keep the number of animals in our home to a reasonable number, I know that I can’t bring them ALL home– just one. Luckily, I think I found her.

It took two trips to the local Cat Care Society to recognize my soul-sister. She was shy, hiding in the corner while all the other cats cavorted and purred around us. I eventually invited her out of the corner to get to know us, assuring her that we could see her wonderfulnes. She tentatively walked toward us and soon let her light shine. She wanted to play, but she also offered cuddles and purrs to both my husband and me. We were smitten.

Once home, she was tentative and scared of every movement and sound. We gave her a haven safe from the others, in my husband’s home office with the door closed. The dogs were too terrifying for her at first. We worked up to opening the door part-way, allowing the cat and dogs to sniff each other through a baby gate. Now, I’m mixing some of them in the same room under close supervision for a short time each day. She is less frightened each passing day, and she’s getting closer to the day when she can roam the  house with confidence. Our dogs are sweet and won’t harass her, although River will offer to play. It will take a little time before she can see that.

The parrots have objected loudly and strenuously to having a new cat in the house, which has been a bit painful. Nami, on the other hand, has enjoyed playing with the new kitty’s toys, as if she was a youngster too!

In the meantime, our new family member has shown us her true nature. She’s sensitive, affectionate, and in tune with my husband and me in a wonderful way. Her purrs are powerful and delightful! I’d like to introduce our new family member: Gracie.