Tommy has now been residing at the home of my niece for one year. As you recall, the beginning was extremely traumatizing for him and he ran away He stayed away for two weeks as my niece and I grieved over his disappearance. Our guilt over his departure in a strange neighborhood was overwhelming. We were relieved and happy when another cat in the neighborhood allowed him to follow him back to my niece's house. After a few weeks, he stopped looking for his old home and settled in to a warm bed and as many meals of "fancy feast" he could consume.
Tommy claimed fame to a position in the garage on the largest cat bed and seemed to enjoy the company of four feline friends who resided in the same area. I received daily reports on his new lifestyle throughout Spring and Summer. Tommy enjoyed watching my niece's husband work in the yard as he planted flowers and trees among his new rock garden that surrounded the house. He would sit atop a large rock as though he was supervising the work being done. He seemed to get very excited about the many beautiful flowers and when the old ones were removed to make space for new ones, he excitedly jumped onto the back of the Highlander to survey the new shipment. He appeared to find peace among the beautiful yard and the sunny days spent on the tallest warm rock.
From time to time, I would receive pictures of him and was amazed at how healthy he looked! He had gained weight (almost too much!) and had proclaimed his territory among all his feline friends. From time to time he would be tempted to follow a neighboring male cat and venture around the outer periphery of the yard. This caused temporary anxiety on the part of his new owners who always welcomed him home with treats and hugs.
Tommy is now seven years old ( cat years, around 49)! I believe he has forgotten the farm where he resided among three families his first six years. He appeared as a kitten and wandered from house to house, begging for food, protection, and attention. He finally decided that my house had what he needed and remained there as my outside barn cat until I left in January, 2020. Even though my extended family provided a new home for Tommy, he in turn provided a much-needed friendship for my niece who was reeling after the loss of both her parents only six month earlier. They have each enjoyed the love that continues to pass between them.
Today, January 2021, Tommy has moved from the garage ( on cold days) to the comfort of their home. In the beginning he was not familiar with house sounds ( T.V., dishwasher, or the humming of many other appliances in the house.). He would run to the door and appear to want to return to the outside. It did not take long for him to lose those fears as he was allowed entry into the warmth of the house more frequently. He now enjoys the belly rubs from two grandchildren who frequent the home of their grandparents. In addition, he has become accustomed to watching the T.V. from the comforts of a soft rug. I am told he especially likes to watch ballgames and will move his head back and forth as he watches the players on the screen.
Yes, this is Tommy today! He no longer has to fear the neighbor's dog who once chased him daily. He is a beautiful, loving pet who repays his new owners many times over with his returning love and affection.
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