Sunday, July 6, 2014

   I’m awakened a couple times during the night. Once when Tommy explores under the bedspread and sheet and gets “caught” in the corner.  A second time she goes behind a pillow, but ends up inside the pillowcase.  The rest of the night I'm able to sleep, but she's in my face when I wake up.

   We begin what I’m hoping is our morning routine.  I check her food and water and replenish as needed.  Then it’s time to check the litter box and I find that she’s used it 2-3 times during the night.  One of my biggest fears is now alleviated.  I also learned that while Tommy is curious, she has no interest in my bathroom habits.  She waits patiently in the bedroom while I use the facilities and/or shower.

   I get an early morning text from one of my sisters asking how the night went.  I call her and explain how well Tony is adjusting to living with me or how well I’m adjusting to living with her.  We spend a very quiet day together although I begin to think that maybe I should rename Tommy, “Shadow.” She follows me everywhere I go and only leaves my side when I had to the bathroom.

   I know that as a stray she may not have had good interactions with humans.  I also know that in the last two months she’s been interacting with some wonderful people at the shelter.  Because she doesn't get along with other cats, I’m not sure how much time she had outside her pen.  Perhaps this is why she clings to me, she’s happy to have someone who loves are and only pays attention to her.

   I've purchased a variety of toys and have tried to introduce a few of them to her.  So far she completely ignores all of them.  I did have 5 minutes of success with the wand that has a feather boa and bell attached to it.  She may not have much experience with play, so that’s something we’ll have to work on together.  I finally try an old standby, some string with several loops tied together on one end.  Finally success, Tommy and I play with a string for about 10 minutes before she stops and appears bored.  I’ll try again tomorrow.

   I need to spend some time on the computer, but it’s hard to get in the study without her.  I let her in once to explore but the plants are too tempting.  I pick her up and take her out.  I’ll have to find a way to make this work.

   Our day is rather uneventful, but I feel we’re making strides together.  Another sister calls later in the day to check in and I ask her a variety of questions. I'm glad that I have a support system to help that just a phone call away. We end the day as it began, in bed tired but happy.