Monday, September 29, 2014:A Great Day With a Few Surprises

Tommy again woke me up at 4:30, but this time, not only did she want attention, she wanted to settle in for a nap.  After she had completed her rubbing against me and I finished my petting while lying on my side, she licked my hand and curled up against my chest. I was one of those moments that remind me how glad I am to have her in my life.

Of course, she didn’t want to stay at my side for long and decided to use me as a hurdle as she jumped across the bed to release some energy. She then settled down under the bed to await the time when I would finally get up and take care of her needs.

At 7:00 I got up and completed my morning duties before heading into the shower to get ready to leave for class. As I finished getting dressed I put on my tennis shoes in the living room. Tommy had been watching my comings and goings throughout the condo and knew what was happening. As I finished tying my shoes, she headed into the bedroom. When I followed her into the bedroom, I saw that she was sitting on the bed waiting for her morning/good bye treat.  I gave them to her and left for class.

When I returned at noon we spent some time catching up on petting and play activities. Later I was hungry so I got out a bag of BBQ flavored turkey jerky. As I ate it while sitting on a chair in the living room, Tommy jumped up on my lap to investigate. She hadn’t jumped up on my lap for some time, so I was surprised.  When she realized that I wasn’t going to share the jerky, she jumped down.  She does have her standards and there’d better be something in it for her to sit on my lap.

Later in the afternoon I saw her intently investigating the balcony screen and door.  She kept moving around, so I went over to check on her. She had found a small house fly and was determined to capture it.  Not knowing whether she would kill and/or eat it, I decided to set it free and opened the screen just a crack. The fly was able to escape, but Tommy wasn’t happy to have lost her new little toy.

Tommy spent some time on her rug and we played with the fleece teaser. There are times when it gets caught on one of her toys, but it doesn’t bother me.  Tommy seemed to have a different opinion.  While I watched, she suddenly starting flinging all her toys off the rug. She didn’t stop until the rug was clear except for a heavier spring toy.

I thought I’d help her. I went over and moved the toy off the rug.  It seemed that Tommy didn’t want it moved. She went and sat behind it and stared at me.  I got the message and moved it back to its original position.  She then moved back on the rug and pulled at the fleece. It appeared that she was ready to play, so that’s what we did.

Tommy’s very good about telling me when she does and doesn’t want to play. If she wants to play, she’ll sit by the fleece teaser or will pull on it.  When she needs to take a break, she’ll either stop the fleece with her paw as it goes by her and then will let it go.  If I don’t catch on to her wishes, she’ll just get up and go get a drink, eat or go to the litter box. I’m sure that she wonders why I can’t figure out how long play time should be.  Of course, it does vary. Sometimes she’ll play for 30-45 minutes and other times 10-15 minutes is all she wants.

After our last play session of the day, we were both laying on the floor and I was watching the news. We both fell asleep, but I woke up about an hour later.  I turned off the TV and the lights and waited for Tommy to go into the bedroom. I guess that she was too tired and just mewed to me.  I picked her up and she snuggled against my neck as we went into the bedroom.

When we got there she mustered enough strength to jump onto the bed from my arms.  I thought that she’d immediately jump down and go under the bed, but I was wrong. She sat there and waited for her treat which I gave to her.

As she ate the treat, I got into bed again expecting her to jump down and go under the bed. She fooled me again. She moved to her old spot for sleeping near my feet, curled up, and closed her eyes. I don’t know why she suddenly decided to sleep on the bed again, but I was so happy to have her feel comfortable enough and trust me enough to want to be close to ne during the night.  Once again as I drifted off to sleep, I was so glad to have my little princess in my life.

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Tommy’s routine of waking me up during the night continues, but now there’s a slight twist. When she wakes me up, she wants to spend the time rubbing up against me and being petted. While I really enjoy it, I sure do wish she wanted to be affectionate during the daylight hours.

Sunday morning was a slow time for us. We played, ate, and just relaxed.  I knew that I needed to finish the cleaning that I had started on Saturday. I began by cleaning counters, sinks, and tables.  Tommy watched from the rug and would occasionally move to the study to get away from the flurry of activity.

With her in the study I decided that it was time for me to do the vacuuming. As I rolled the vacuum cleaner out of the closet, Tommy noticed it, but since there was no way for her to get out of the room, she stayed put and I left to vacuum the bedroom. When I finished the bedroom I went to start the living room. As I worked over by the windows, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a little fur ball dart into the bedroom.

When I finished vacuuming the condo, I headed to the bedroom and took treats to Tommy under the bed. I let her know that the coast was clear, but she wasn’t taken any chances. After a few hours, she appeared in the living room.

We spent the rest of the day watching television and playing. Tommy doesn’t like football. I think that she sometimes thinks that my loud comments are meant for her.  It takes some time to calm her down, give her a treat and let her know that I was sorry for upsetting her.

When it was time for bed, Tommy headed into the bedroom and we settled in for the night.  We’d had another great day together and hopefully we’d have a peaceful night.

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Tommy woke me up twice during the night. Both times she came up by my head and started vocalizing that she was there and wanted some attention. At 4:00 she just wanted attention and settled down near my head for a short nap. After about five minutes, she headed off the bed to sit on the chest of drawers. It’s got a glass top so it can’t be very warm, but it does give her access to the mirror. She seems to stare into the mirror for a long time; I wonder what she’s thinking.

At 6:30, I’m sure that she woke me up thinking that since the sun was up I should be also. This time after spending a few minutes with me, she sat on the table across from the foot of the bed and stared at me. This table also has a glass top, but it does give her a good vantage point of the entire room.

When I got up at 7:15 I began the chores and Tommy began supervising. I’d load laundry and she’d watch. She doesn’t supervise as much when I’m cleaning floors, but does check up on me when I’m giving her litter box a good washing. She’s especially interested to watch me dry the litter box.

She did let me know when it was time for her morning grass snack or that she needs new food or water. She goes in the study where I keep it and jumps up on the guest bed case looking at the grass up on the chest. For the food and water she sits by the bedroom door and if I don’t notice quickly enough she’ll meow in her lovely way that reminds me that I have things to do.

I got her a new rug that she really likes. She has had trouble with her claws on the carpet sometimes when we play so I put down some cardboard as a temporary fix. I found that she liked it and this became her new spot in the living room. Not wanting to keep a piece of cardboard in the living room, I found a rug that didn’t have the usual fiber looping. It works much better for her then the carpet and she loves sitting on it.

I can’t believe that today marked twelve weeks since Tommy came to live here. Throughout the day I was reminded of how far we’ve come (and how much farther we have to go). Tommy shows affection by rubbing against me and lately I swear she’s been much more affectionate. She stills tries to bite when she gets upset, but I’m learning the caution signals and she never actually bites me.

We did have one little problem today. While I was making a salad for dinner, Tommy came into the kitchen to check up on me and rub against my legs.  After about a minute she suddenly dashed out of the room. Since she’s been known to suddenly dash out for no reason that I can figure out, I didn’t think much about it.

When I finished the salad I brought it out to the table, but I didn’t see Tommy anywhere in the room. I decided to check in the study and there she was on the desk reaching over to the wheat grass to have an extra meal. Since she’s been known for overindulging on grass and becoming constipated, I went up to her, picked her up and carried her out of the room. Well, that didn’t sit well with her and she went and pouted on her rug. I tried petting her to comfort her, but she tried to bite me to show that she was upset that I wouldn’t let her have as much grass as she wanted.

When I sat down to eat my salad, Tommy came to investigate. I’m sure she didn’t understand why I could have greens, but she couldn’t. I put a small piece in front of her and she just smelled it but wouldn’t eat it. I of course felt sorry for her and gave her a natural treat that included tuna, cranberries, and sunflower seeds. I think that appeased her.

Later as she sat on her rug, I went and petted her. All went well for a while, but again she was ready to either swat my hand or bite it, so I left her alone until she was ready to interact with me. I know that Buddha position and also know that sooner or later she’ll want my attention.

When it was time for bed, Tommy went right in and crawled right under the bed.  While she has gotten very good about going into the bedroom when it’s time for bed or me to leave, I still miss having her on the bed and not hiding under it.  Hopefully one of these days, she’ll decide to come out of her dark cave.

Friday, September 26, 2014

Tommy woke me up during the night and I was happy to have her attention again. She came up by my head, talked and I could tell wanted my attention.  After some petting and talking she settled in for a short time.  I was happy even for the short time she spent up on the bed for that meant that she was missing being up there and was again feeling comfortable on top of the bed.

She spent some time wandering around the bed and room before heading back under the bed. I had to remind myself that little steps forward were better than regression.  I fell back asleep and didn’t wake up until 8:00. I called for Tommy and it took her a while to decide to jump up and say hello.

Once the day began we had our morning of “pet and play.” At one point Tommy went to sit by the balcony door and enjoy the sun and fresh air. While she did that, I took the time to work on paperwork. When she was ready for some attention, she came over and I tried to pet her. She wanted a play session so we transitioned into playing. Unfortunately Tommy wanted to play by biting me, so I got up and went back to working on my paperwork and scheduling a car appointment.

Later Tommy appeared looking for attention. She jumped up on the desk, which hasn’t happened for a while and I could tell that she wasn’t going to try to bite. Instead she licked my hand. Whenever she has a biting “moment” it always seemed to be followed later by a hand licking time. I’d swear she was apologizing, and I know that some people don’t believe that cats feel remorse, but I’m not so sure.

I had to leave for lunch with friends and Tommy came right into the bedroom. I put some treats on the bed and she jumped up to get them. She usually is pretty good during the day about being left alone.

When I returned I brought back some different treats. I don’t think she’s a fan of salmon and she licked one, and then looked up at me as if to say, “You thought I’d like this?” She walked away without touching it again. It looks like my sisters’ cats will be getting more treats courtesy of my picky princess.

We spent our usual evening watching television and playing. During the news Tommy fell asleep, but woke up at the end. I carried her into the bedroom and she was fine until we got near the bed. I don’t know why she thinks I’m not going to let her jump down; I always do, but she still claws to get away when we get near the bed.

She jumped down from the bed. I put her snack on the bottom of the bed (no salmon!) and let her know that it was there.  She headed under the bed, so I turned off the lights and went to sleep. I’m still hoping that soon she’ll start sleeping on the bed again, but it looks like this is becoming the new routine.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

For the first time in a while, Tommy didn’t wake me during the night. I was the one who woke up and realized that Tommy’s late night snack was still on the bed which meant that she hadn’t emerged from under the bed and moved to sleep on the bed.

When I tried to engage Tommy in conversation, she turned away and ignored me. I could tell that once the morning came, we might not be on good terms.  Since I’ve been busier lately Tommy has been more standoffish. She’ll acknowledge me and usually let me play with her or pet her, but she hasn’t been as friendly. She really isn’t a lap or cuddle cat, so it’s hard to get affection from her. Usually she’d just rub my legs a couple times and figure that she’d done her job.

She seemed to be a solitary cat who enjoys just sitting in the sun and watching the world go by her.  She would occasionally play by herself, but most of her playing would happen with me. Sometimes she’d sit by her toys and let me know it was time, or I would realize that we hadn’t played and start the session.

When we got out of bed today, Tommy seemed a little better. She actually wanted to play and be petted. Fortunately I was home all day, so we got in some quality time. We played and then when Tommy took her afternoon nap, I went down to the fitness center.

My only concern today was that Tommy appeared to be getting a bit more aggressive both during play and petting sessions. When I pet her she has wanted to turn it into a session of “grab my hand and bite.” I wasn’t sure if she was showing how upset she was that I’d been gone or this was how she played out on the streets. We’re going to have to continue working on this.

While she still has her frenzied moments where she’s running around the condo and is normal, her scratching is pretty much done on her posts. She hasn’t scratched on the sofa for a long time, so I think that has been fixed. Rarely does she scratch on the carpet and when she does, I know that I need to be paying attention to her.

I needed to go to a meeting for a couple hours and Tommy was very good about going into the bedroom and having a treat. When I returned she was glad to see me and we spent some quality time together before going to bed.

Tommy did jump up on the bed to have her late night snack, but when she finished she jumped back down and settled in under the bed. I’m not sure if this is a permanent change, or if she was just letting me know that she wasn’t happy with my schedule. We’ll see what happens during the night and tomorrow morning. Fortunately my weekend is pretty free, so we’ll be able to spend more time together.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014: Under the Bed

Tommy again woke me up during the night and jumped up by my head so we could “talk.” This time I heard the noise from above. Our neighbor above was doing early morning exercises. As I calmed her down, Tommy got really close to my face and settled down to sleep close by. Although we’ve talked at the head of the bed, she’s never laid down before and slept.

I fell asleep and when I woke up in the morning Tommy had moved back under the bed. When we got up she raced into the living room and sat near the toys. I’m not sure if she knew that I had a morning class, but I could tell that she wanted to get some play time in right away.

We played with the fleece teaser (as always) and at one point Tommy grabbed the end in her mouth and lead me into the bedroom. She stopped by her scratching post. I knew that she liked it when we used the teaser and post together, but this time she wasn’t interested in playing.

She let go of the teaser and sat there staring at me.  I then noticed the little gift that she had left on the floor.  She doesn’t have very large hairballs, but rather what looks like white vomit that contains some hair.  Actually what it looks like to me is a patch of fuzz or webbing. I probably wouldn’t have noticed it for quite a while if she hadn’t pointed it out to me.

I cleaned it up and Tommy seemed satisfied.  We finished playing and I got ready to leave. Again Tommy seemed to sense that I was leaving and headed for the bedroom and went under the bed. I again tried coaxing her out with her treat, but again she wasn’t budging.  I left the treats and headed to class.

When I returned Tommy hadn’t eaten her treats and these happened to be the hairball control ones, so I brought them in the living room. She noticed them and ate them. I have noticed that lately when she gets in a mood and snaps at me that later she’ll come up and start rubbing against me. I think it’s her way of letting me know that she’s better, she still loves me, and could we please try again.

We then played for a while and also searched for her pink sponge ball that’s been lost for a day.  We didn’t have any luck finding it, but Tommy did enjoy “helping” to look in the sofa bed as I took off the cushions and looked in the sofa bed itself. After play time, Tommy went to nap under the bed.  I’m still not sure if she likes that spot because it’s dark and quiet, I’m not there, or it’s just a safe place.

The evening was spent in the usual way. We watched Big Brother and the news followed by an hour long play session. During the session we found the pink ball. I know that I had rolled out the cart in the kitchen before, so I’m not sure how it suddenly got there. Tommy decided to end our play session by crawling under the bed.  I tried a couple different toys, but she was done for the night. I put her late night snack on the bed, told her about it, said good night and turned off the lights.  I’m not sure what’s going on with this under the bed thing, but hopefully she’ll emerge before morning. 

Tuesday, September 23, 2014: Mixed Signals

Tommy woke me up during the night and jumped up by my head so we could “talk.” She probably felt that with all the time I’d been gone over the weekend that she hadn’t gotten enough attention (or maybe some noise frightened her). Either way, we spent some time talking or I petted her until she curled up next to me head. She’s been starting to spend part of the night up by my head and it’s one of those special times that I don’t mind giving up some sleep to get some attention from her. See, it works both ways, I give her attention and she gives me some attention, too.

I again spent time working on paperwork whenever Tommy would take a nap. When she was awake I knew that we would be spending time playing. I brought out her grass for her morning snack and she ate some of it, but then walked away after her little snack.  She seemed to be regulating her intake which is good since I know that she can overeat grass.

Everything went well until I had to practice my songs for choir on the keyboard. Tommy definitely doesn’t like my singing. Sometimes she’ll come in and yell at me, but today she went and took a nap under the bed, which is probably as far away as she can get in the condo.

Later while she was napping, I tried to quietly go to the fitness center to read my architecture textbook and listen to the songs for choir. As I headed to the door to leave, Tommy let out a yell to let me know that I was caught in the act. I went over and petted her and told her that I’d be back soon and would give a treat when I returned. She seemed to accept that and stayed on her chair in the sun when I left.

When I returned I was greeted at the door. She was probably reminding me that I owed her a treat. It was given and she ate most of the little pieces.  We then had our afternoon play session before Tommy sacked out on the floor by a sunny window. I took that as my cue to go and get caught up on the blogs.

After dinner I needed to leave for choir rehearsal. I wasn’t sure how Tommy would take it. As I was getting ready, she must have realized that I would be leaving and moved into the bedroom. I thought that this was going way too easily, and I was right.

When I was ready I couldn’t find Tommy. I finally located her under the bed. I put out one of her treats to try to coax her out so I could say a proper good-bye, but she wasn’t budging. I gave her the treat and then waited for her to finish. When I went to pet her, she snapped at me. It seems that she wasn’t happy with my leaving, but had just begrudgingly accepted the fact. I left her the rest of the treats and went off to choir.

When I returned, we played for a short time, but Tommy just didn’t seem to want to continue. I did bring home a new little toy and she seemed to enjoy that novelty for a while although I think she liked it better when she played with it by herself. Since she was in a mood I didn’t even want to think about bedtime.

When it was time, I said good night, told Tommy to come in when she was ready and went to bed leaving the door open. Later when I was ready to turn off the television and lights there was still no sign of Tommy in the bedroom. I figured that I was supposed to go and get her as usual.

When I found Tommy in the living room she started running away from me.  This wasn’t going to be easy, so I prepared myself to spend some time calming her down and getting her to go into the bedroom.  When she went near the windows I sat down and said that I wasn’t going to chase her because I was too tired.  Amazingly, I watched as Tommy walked into the bedroom.

When I got there I found her under the bed (again). I gave her a treat and told her that the rest was on the bed as always. I then went to bed and turned off the lights. When that was done, Tommy jumped up on the bed and ate her treats. Sometimes she scares me with the possibility that she might understand what I’m saying.  After finishing her treat she then spent some time jumping up on one side of the bed, over me and jumping down the other side.  I went to sleep hoping that she’d settle down and sleep in her usual spot again.

Saturday, September 20, 2014 - Monday, September 22, 2014

With Doors Open MKE this past weekend, I knew that I was going to be gone most of the each day. Tommy seemed to be okay with my comings and goings. I was able to have pet & play times with her in the morning and when I returned at night.

She didn’t seem to be eating as much and I’m sure that it had something to do with my absences. I brought home some wheat grass for her with the understanding that it would be available in the morning for a short time. I didn’t want her to overindulge or get constipated again.

On Saturday night when it was time for bed, Tommy decided that I should have to work to get her to come to bed.  She usually will either come of her own accord, or at least let me pick her up to take her to the bedroom.  Saturday night she began running around so I couldn’t catch her. I finally stopped chasing and waited for her to come to me. When she finally was bored since I was chasing her, she came over, I picked her up and we went into the bedroom.

Saturday and Sunday night she began each sleep session under the bed, but usually found her way back up to the bed after I had fallen asleep.  It’s become her way to let me know when I have crossed a line.  Being gone most of the day meant that I was not able to give her enough attention.

Sunday night, Tommy seemed to “give up” and came into the bedroom when I went in to get ready for bed.  Each night she always got her usual late night snack and petting before I turned off the lights and went to sleep.

Monday morning I overslept and really had to race around to get everything done before leaving for class.  Tommy was still in the bedroom, so it was easy to take care of her needs before I left. Since I was leaving for class, I wouldn’t be gone long and hopefully she would be fine with my absence.

When I returned, I spent some time with Tommy before heading into the study to try to catch up on the increasing mound of paperwork.  I didn’t even take the time to open the blinds.  When Tommy came in to check on me, she found the blinds still closed, but that didn’t deter her from looking outside. She merely thrust her head through the blinds to see.

I, of course, quickly went over and remedied the situation.  The rest of the day I worked around Tommy’s schedule. When she was napping I would hurry into the study to get some work done. I knew that when she woke up she would find me and let me know that I was no longer on “me time,” but now on “she time.”

We spent a quiet day and evening. When it was time for bed, Tommy didn’t run around nor did she follow me into the bedroom.  When I turned out the living room lights she spread herself out on the floor waiting for me to pick her up.  She, as always lets out a little whimper when I close the bedroom door with my foot as we enter. I’m glad that I’m holding on to her then because it gives me the chance to give her a little hug and let her know that in the morning she’ll again have free range over the condo.

She again headed under the bed after her snack, but I know as always that sometime during the night she’ll reappear up on the bed and settle in to sleep. I can’t believe it’s been eleven weeks since she arrived. It just seems so natural to have her with me now.

Friday, September 19, 2014

Tommy woke me up for her usual 3:00 reminder that she had used the litter box and now it was my turn in the bathroom. She also woke me up another time and wanted to chat. She sat up near my head and tried to carry on a conversation. I just petted her to warm her up, reminded her that if she wanted a warmer spot she should sleep closer to me and use my body heat, and also reminded her that when it’s pitch black outside, I am not ready to wake up for the day.  She then let me sleep until almost 7:30.

During the morning I realized just how much Tommy had gotten used to some of my routines.  I had to take her bagged “offerings” from the litter box and later out larger bag of garbage to the trash chute down the hall. When I first started doing this after Tommy moved in, she would follow me to the door and try to come with me. Later she progressed to just going to the door after I left and waiting there for my return. Now she doesn’t even move. She sees a garbage bag and must know that I’ll return shortly.

I guess that’s even how she handles my comings and goings. She knows that I’ll return and she’s got what she needs, food water, litter box, television on to usually the Games Network (she does love Family Feud) and a light on just in case I’ll be late. She’s settled in and now feels secure and safe.

We’ve had some claw issues lately. Her claws are always getting caught on the carpet. I found out that the place where we went to have her nails trimmed didn’t have a certified cat groomer. I can only image that the person who clipped Tommy’s claws just did the ends and within less than two weeks she was again having trouble on the carpet. We’re going to be trying a new place and hopefully they’ll do a better job so that Tommy won’t have as much trouble on the carpet.

I gave her a cardboard “rug” to help alleviate the problem when we play with the fleece teaser. She absolutely loved it. We played on it and although she did slide a little when she attacked the fleece, she played longer and didn’t have to stop to lick her paws.  She also enjoyed exploring the cardboard and checking underneath to see if anything was hiding there.  I’ll have to remember to put a treat there once in a while as a surprise.

When it was clear the Tommy was in a good mood and ready to travel, I put a couple treats in her carrier, she strolled in, and I zipped it up. Step 1 was a success; now hopefully the rest would be the same.  We traveled down in the elevator and Tommy let the other people know that she was going for a ride. We traveled down the garage elevator and went to the car. Although she let out a couple yelps, she didn’t appear nervous or skittish.

We drove along and she talked and pushed her face against the mesh so I could rub her face.  All was going very well. We got to Petco and waited for Stephanie, the cat groomer and manager. While we waited a dog came in and I must say that Tommy handled herself much better than the dog, another good sign.

When Stephanie came in, she took Tommy out of her carrier, petted her and began clipping her nails. When Tommy’s head or tail were in the way, Stephanie expertly repositioned Tommy. In only a couple minutes, Tommy was done and we left to pay the bill and return home.  Tommy had been an excellent kitty. She was so clam while Stephanie clipped her nails. I credit both Stephanie and Tommy for an easy excellent experience.

When we got home, Tommy quickly exited her carrier and she barely stood still while I took off her collar. She got her treats and we began our Friday chores. I started the laundry while Tommy napped. In a few months I may feel confident enough to again attempt clipping Tommy’s nails myself, but for now, I’m glad that we have Stephanie.

When we played after Tommy’s nails got clipped, she moved faster and seemed to be playing more. I’m sure that it had something to do with the fact that her nails weren’t constantly getting caught in the carpet.  Although she still enjoyed playing with the fleece teaser, she also played with a variety of toys.

She spent quite a bit of time napping after our extended play time.  She did occasionally get up to either check to see what I was doing or handle her personal needs for food, water, a litter box, or just a change of napping location. When I was working in the study, she still came in napped in the sun by the window.

After her late night nap, we had another play session. While we were playing with the fleece I moved into the bedroom so we could play with it on her scratching post.  She really likes that arrangement and plays wildly. I thought it might burn off some excess energy since she’d just gotten up from her nap.

She took a break and I closed the door, thinking I could alleviate a later issue. I was wrong (again). She got very upset and moved under the bed. I tried to coax her back out with the teaser, but she only would pull it out and after a while completely stopped playing. I got down on the floor and we talked.

I put a treat on her scratching post and pretty soon she was out from under the bed enjoying it.  I then prepared for bed. When I got into bed Tommy didn’t follow. She knew that the rest of her late night treat was up on the bed. After “making her statement” about my deviousness, she jumped up on the bed, ate her treat and curled up by my feet ready to go to sleep. It was a good way to end our day.

Thursday, September 18, 2014: Back to Normal, Fireworks and Up & Down

Tommy allowed me to sleep through the night except for her usual 3:00 reminder that she had used the litter box and now it was my turn in the bathroom. It never fails to amaze me that she knows when it’s time for me to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

We have a good day. We play and eat. I decided that it was time to vacuum and Tommy made sure that she was in a different room each time.  When I finished, I located her under the bed and let her know that it was safe to return to the living room, but she had her doubts and stayed under the bed for a while which allowed me to get some paperwork done.

Her health issue is history. She’s now eating well and eliminating regularly. It looks like we’ll be going back to the chicken and rice blend. She ate the kitten formula when she first got here and now will be transitioning to the adult formula.  Whenever there’s anything left in the bowl it’s always the chicken, turkey, duck blend that we’d previously tried. That means for the next week, I’ll be adding more chicken and rice and less of the fowl (foul?) blend until she’s completely on chicken and rice. Maybe in about six months we’ll try a seafood blend for a change.

I was meeting a friend for dinner and as I got ready, Tommy supervised. When I was ready to go she jumped up on the bed and looked around for her “departing” treat. I hadn’t put it out yet, so she let me know that it was time. After I put out the treat she started eating it and barely acknowledged my departure.  At dinner my friend reminded me of the saying, “Dogs have owners, but cats have staff” which sure is true!

When I returned, Tommy was glad to see me and we spent some petting and playing time. Later in the evening fireworks were shot off from the lakefront.  Tommy decided to investigate and sat and watched them from the balcony door. I turned off the lights to give her a better view. She usually doesn’t like fireworks, so this was a surprise.

She was fine until near the end when all the loud booming started. With the colorful lights gone, she headed away from the door and toward me. I went and opened the closet which was our usual safe place, but she stopped short of entering. At one point she was next to the bed and I thought that she’d seek refuge under it, but again I was wrong.  We hung out far away from the windows until after the fireworks ended.

We continued our nighttime rituals of playing, and watching television. Actually I watch television while she naps.  When it was time for bed, Tommy was already zoning out on the floor, so I waited for her to awaken. When she did, I picked her up and carried her to the bedroom. She let out a slight whimper when I closed the door. A typical teenager, she didn’t want to go to bed even though she had already crashed.

As the day ended, Tommy decided to show me how much energy she had. With me in bed, she’d jump up on one side, climb over me and jump down the other side.  She’d then do something like have a food/water/litter box break, run around the bedroom/bathroom area, or look out the window then it was back for another round of “up-over-and down.” She did this several times until I had a chance to turn off the light while she used her scratching post, trying for one last treat before going to bed.  With the lights out, she finally resigned herself to the idea that I was going to sleep. She jumped up on the bed once more, but this time curled up in her usual spot ready to go to sleep.

Wednesday, September 17, 2014: One More Episode, but All’s Well that Ends Well

Around 3:00 A.M. I was awakened by some noise.  I called out for Tommy because she wasn’t on the bed, but she didn’t answer. I turned on the light and found Tommy on the floor sitting behind a very small amount of something.  When I got down there I could tell that Tommy had puked up the substance. 

I cleaned up the material and Tommy and I laid together on the bed until she fell back asleep. I was gain surprised that she chose to lay up by my head, but it gave me that opportunity to keep her close.  It seemed that her stomach was settling, and hopefully in the morning Tommy would be feeling better.

In the morning Tommy came up near my head (apparently she had left the bed sometime during the early morning) to wake me up. She woke me up right when I needed to get up to get ready for school and still have enough time to monitor her. She seemed to have quite a bit more energy. As I was sitting on a chair in the living room, she did her usual rubbing her face against my feet. I guess I wasn’t paying enough attention because she jumped up on the chair next to me and yelled at me.

It was at this point I knew that my little fur ball was feeling better. She could tell that I was getting ready to leave and surprisingly sat in the bedroom and watched.  I decided that it would be better to close the bedroom door right away rather than take the chance that Tommy wouldn’t bolt in a few minutes. I told her I’d be back soon and that she should try to eat something.

When I returned, Tommy greeted me and then I could tell that she was ready to play.  I changed my clothes and checked on her food dishes. I had put out three dishes of fresh food, the new kind, the old kind in an adult version, and a mix of the two. Since we were just finishing the transition and she hadn’t “completely committed” to the new type, I figured that I could put a small amount of each type to try to learn her preference.

Of course, that would mean that she’d have to actually eat some of the food. It seemed that she had eaten some of the chicken and rice, which was the adult version of her kitten food. She tends to be a nibbler so I wasn’t concerned that she hadn’t eaten very much. I figured that I could leave all three out during the day to see if she kept the preference.

We played for quite a while and Tommy did take a couple breaks for food and water. Each time she returned from eating I checked her bowls. By midafternoon she had eaten a bit from all three bowls, so much for learning her preference! She took her afternoon nap in the sun by the window in the study while I worked on the computer. It was nice to be able to watch her sleep while I worked. When I started dictating/transcribing, she let me know that I was too loud and left the room only to return in a few minutes and continue her nap by the window.

The evening was spent in the usual way, playing, watching television, and napping. When it was time for bed I turned off the television and went into the bedroom to get everything ready. Tommy surprised me by following me into the bedroom. Usually I get the “honor” of picking her up and taking her into the bedroom, sometimes while she’s trying to escape from me.  I closed the door and put her late night treat on the bed. She jumped up on the bed, ate her treat and then curled up in her usual spot on the bed. It seemed that Tommy was rewarding me for all the care and loving that she received when she wasn’t feeling well.  It just seemed to me that we were getting into a routine that we both could “tolerate.”

Tuesday, September 16, 2014: A Constipated Kitty

As always some time during the night, Tommy found her way up to the bed and was there when I woke up.  As we started the day, I noticed that Tommy hadn’t been eating as much as she usually did. I wasn’t sure if she was starting to graze too much on the grass or if she decided that she didn’t like the new adult food that she’d transitioned to from her kitty food.

I tried to monitor her throughout the day. She seemed a bit lethargic and I wasn’t sure if she was napping more or if she was just tired from all of the company this past weekend and disruptions to her schedule. I also noticed a decrease in her “output.” She was urinating less and she hadn’t pooped. She’s pretty regular, so I decided that this was another indication that something was wrong.

She spent most of the day either napping or seeking my attention, especially wanting to be petted. I think that she just wanted some comforting, and I was glad to provide it. I read my ASPCA cat care book about refusing to eat and the more I read, the more worried I was getting. The only nourishment she was taking was a nibble of grass every so often and an occasional treat.  She seemed to be taking in enough water, so I wasn’t worried about dehydration.

Tommy did play a little with me, but the sessions were never very long nor very intense. She wasn’t irritable and she wasn’t showing any aggressive behavior toward me. The longer she went without eating her food, the more nervous I was getting.  I knew that I had to leave in the early evening for choir rehearsal, but I really hated leaving her alone. She on the other hand, seemed okay with me leaving her alone in the bedroom.

When I got in the car to leave I decided to call my sister and seek her advice. Another one of my sisters happened to be over, so I got advice from both of them.  They told me that she was probably constipated and was overdoing the grass. Things would be okay once she pooped, and to call back if it didn’t happen within 24 hours. At that point we would probably be heading for the veterinarian for help.

I got through rehearsal and rushed home. Tommy was very glad to see me and spent a considerable amount of time rubbing up against me and wanting to be petted. After a while, she got up and headed for the litter box. She seemed to spend a longer amount of time in there than she normally did. I was hoping that meant that “the wait” was over.

When she finished, I went in and checked the litter box. She had probably just defecated about two days’ worth of waste. I was never so happy to see poop in my life. Hurdle number one had been crossed and now she just needed to start eating her food again. I knew that it might take a while because she was still probably not feeling very hungry.

We stayed up for a while and then when it was time to go to the bedroom, Tommy while not completely compliant at least there wasn’t the chasing of the night before and she allowed me to pick her up (very carefully and gingerly) and take her into the bedroom. When we got in the bedroom she remained on the bed. I wondered if this was her way of thanking me or that she just wanted the comfort and assurance of having me nearby her. Either way, I was glad that things were improving.

Monday, September 15, 2014

Tommy spent part of the night on the bed and part of the night exploring. At one point during the night, she came up by my head to “talk.” She then curled up for a moment or two. It was another indication that she’s feeling safer with and closer to me. I didn’t mind being awakened at 3:00 for something like that.

When we finally got up Tommy ran into the living room, but stopped short. I’m not sure if she was expecting my sisters to still be there.  Since I had a 9:00 class, I needed to get moving and Tommy seemed to be okay with my leaving. This was of course after we had a play period and I made sure that all her necessities were replenished, cleaned, etc.

When I returned there was a very quiet kitty waiting for me at the bedroom door.  We had our usual petting and treat period and then we played for a little while.  I went into the study to put everything back in order and Tommy came along to watch. When I deflated the queen sleeper, Tommy darted out. I’m sure that the noise was too much for her.

When sheets and towels were thrown out into the hall, Tommy investigated. Laundry was started and we went back into the study. Tommy let out what could only be described as a cry. She seemed upset and the only possible reason I can think of was that her aunties weren’t still around to give her the added attention that she’d liked so much over the weekend.

While I worked in the study, Tommy would occasionally visit or leave and nap in her bed in the living room by the window. It never fails that when I’m nearly done with a project, Tommy will come in and let me know that I’m taking too long.

We spend a quiet evening, but I notice something that’s a little upsetting. Tommy hasn’t been eating as much as she usually does. We changed the food she was eating, changing both the manufacturer and flavor. We needed to transition her to adult food and I thought that she liked turkey flavor, but couldn’t find it by the previous maker. The new blend has turkey, chicken and duck flavors. I thought that she was eating it, but maybe she was eating around it. 

I’m going to keep a close eye on her heating habits for the next few days and if it doesn’t improve, she’ll be heading to the doctor to make sure that it’s not due to illness. She seems fine and her behavior hasn’t changed.  Maybe it was just the recent changes with company that have her being a little picky.

We do have an issue going to bed for the first time in a while. When Tommy senses that we’re headed to bed, she actually runs away from me when I get close to her.  After a couple missteps, I calmly sit down and call her and she comes to me.  We head into the bedroom, but she’ll only accept her late night snack on the floor; she won’t jump on the bed for it. As I turn out the lights, I hope that I’ll find her on the bed later.

Saturday, September 13, 2014-Sunday, September 14, 2014: Weekend Company

With Al’s Run closing our street at 9:45, I needed to leave early to do some cat shopping before picking up my sisters. I was meeting them halfway between Oshkosh and Milwaukee and bringing them back down for a weekend of Brewers games and “Tommy Time.”

When we returned Tommy was curious about all the bags that they had brought. I’m sure that she could smell their pets. We had plenty of time in the afternoon for Tommy and his aunts to get reacquainted.  As always she was the perfect hostess allowing Auntie Jane to pick her up before she’d very carefully squirm out and jump down.

She also allowed Auntie TC to pet her and play with her (and give her extra treats). At one point Tommy actually surprised me by jumping up on the sofa and sitting between TC and me. She doesn’t usually sit on the sofa and if she does, it’s only when nobody else is occupying it. I’m not sure why she did it, but I’m glad that she did.

Tommy could sense we were leaving, but let me pick her up and take her to the bedroom. We left for the bar/restaurant where we would have some drinks and appetizers before taking the shuttle to the game.

When we returned we had some play time with Tommy. I’m sure that she was wondering why her two aunties were still here. When Jane went into the study/guest room and TC stayed in the living room while Tommy and I headed for the bedroom, I’m sure she was bewildered. We were always the only two beings in the condo when we went to sleep.

Tommy jumped up for her bedtime snack and surprised me by staying on the bed and curling up to sleep. While she usually ends up on the bed to sleep, she starts out on the floor either playing, checking out what’s outside, or just sitting there before jumping up on the bed.

In the morning, Tommy was still in her usual spot on the bed. She may have gotten up during the night, but she was very quiet if she did. When we went to the living room, she stopped for a moment when she saw that my sisters were sitting in the living room. Nobody was ever there when we entered in the morning.

We spent a relatively quiet morning with Tommy getting all the attention. When I returned after showering and getting ready, I noticed that there was a treat sitting on one of the dining room chairs.  I knew that I hadn’t given Tommy any treats on the chair, so I took it over to her and mentioned that she had left one of the treats that Auntie Tc had given her on the chair.  TC said that she had told Tommy not to tell me, but Tommy as always did what she wanted. She knew that she wouldn’t get in trouble, but that TC would be busted!

Around 10:00 we had another visitor, our niece Kayla came over to meet Tommy.  Again Tommy was a gracious hostess, but seemed a little more curious and didn’t really get as close to Kayla. Perhaps Tommy understood that Kayla is allergic to cats and didn’t want her to sneeze or get sick?

Tommy again was a little angel when I needed to put her in the bedroom before we left and when we returned. After the girls finished packing, Tommy was very curious about their bags. Again, I’m sure that she could smell their pets. I again put Tommy in the bedroom and she handled it well as she seemed to be getting used to the routine of my leaving and returning. Of course before they left, my sisters gave Tommy again much affection and attention,

When I returned Tommy was glad to see me, but kept looking around. I’ll bet that she wondered where her aunties were. She and I spent a quiet night playing and just enjoying being alone together again. As I picked up Tommy and put her in my arms to take her to the bedroom, she nuzzled my neck and didn’t try to escape until she jumped on the bed to retrieve her bedtime snack.

We had all had a wonderful weekend. Tommy enjoyed her time with my sisters as did they. While it’s fun to have company, I think we both were glad to be back to our routine. While it hasn’t always been easy for us to learn to live together, the ten weeks have gone by quickly and each week seems to be better than the last.

Friday, September 12, 2014: Tommy “Helps” Clean and Unexpected Visitors

I was awakened around 5:00 when I heard crunching.  I know that Tommy hadn’t been eating as much since she got her grass, so I figured that the last mix of old and new had probably dried out. I got up to handle it and of course Tommy ran for the door. I told her I would be right back, and she waited patiently without trying to make a break for the living room.  When I returned I left a new dish with fresh food next to the old one and she chose the old one. (If only I’d know!!!!)

When I awoke again around 7:00 Tommy was looking out of the window, but jumped up on the bed when she saw I was awake. We got through a few morning duties before Tommy was ready for playtime.  We played for quite a while with the fleece teaser. I can’t get over how much she gravitates towards that toy.

After playing it was time to start cleaning. While I worked on the litter box and our bathroom, Tommy amused herself in the living room. When I was running to the laundry area in the guest bathroom, Tommy was having a morning grass snack.  When I returned, she gave me that “look what I did” look.  I thought that I had finished my glass of water last night, but it appeared that I hadn’t. Tommy was nice enough to start cleaning the cocktail table with a good washing of water. Fortunately the phone and table books weren’t damaged. The junk mail, Shepherd Express, and grocery flyers couldn’t be saved but are easily replaced.

Once I got the table cleared, Tommy thought she wanted to experience a water drenched table and jumped back up. I gave her a towel, but she didn’t seem to be in the mood to dry the table.  While we were doing the chores, we got a message that some friends were in the neighborhood and wanted to meet Tommy. Since she seemed to be in a rather devilish mood, I wasn’t sure what would happen.

When my friends arrived Tommy once again was the perfect little kitty. She gave them her attention for a while, rubbed against them, allowed herself to be petted, and even rolled onto her back to show her belly. She always trusts my friends and I’m glad she’s that good with people.  As we talked, Tommy sat quietly and waited for us to give her more attention.  When my friends were ready to leave, Tommy showed how well behaved she was by sitting and watching them leave (not trying to escape out the door).

The rest of the afternoon was nap time for Tommy. Whenever I couldn’t find her, I knew that she was on the bed taking a nap. That gave me time to run down to the fitness center and later to run to the drug store and also to get the mail. Each time I returned to find Tommy up and awaiting my return.  After her treats and pettings, she would return to the bedroom for another cat nap.

I finished up the cleaning, laundry, and baking. By the time everything was done, Tommy was awake and we had a final play session for the day.  I apologized for the fact that we were now going back to bed, but I reminded Tommy that she was the one that chose to sleep most of the day while I was the one that worked and was exhausted.

I’m not sure that she understood, but she again allowed me to pick her up and take her to the bedroom. Once there, she got her late night snack. I got in bed, wished her a good night and turned off the lights.  Within in minute or two she hopped up on the bed and curled up in her usual spot.  I guess maybe she did understand, or she was just trying to keep the peace until I fell asleep. 

Thursday, September 11, 2014: I Pay the Price But It’s Worth It

After going to sleep late I hoped that I’d be able to sleep late. Tommy spent most of the early morning attempting to wake me. She even pushed my water bottle onto the floor which always makes a loud noise.  I knew that I had to get her out of the habit of thinking that I didn’t need any sleep and I was to be awakened whenever she deemed that it was time.

I finally got up at 8:00 and knew that there was going to be a price to pay. She would follow me around but wouldn’t want me to pet her or play with her. It’s her way of getting back at her “man servant” for daring to disobey her.  I know that it will be a rough morning, but sooner or later she’ll want attention and all will be forgiven.

I again spoke too soon. Tommy spent the first part of the morning occasionally following me around and each time I would calmly try to pet her or talk to her, she would spat my hand or walk away.  When I would go into the study, she would follow, sit by the Cat’s Meow and look at me.  I’d turn on the toy and she would look at it. The first time, she left, the second time she actually played with it.

Of course, when she saw that I was working at the computer transcribing, she left. She returned shortly, but I had already turned off the toy, so I needed to turn it back on for her. When I went over to do that, she jumped on her chair. She then left to resume her Buddha stance in the living room. Occasionally when I would enter the living room, Tommy would call out to me, but when I went over to pet her, she would pull away. She’s definitely “in a mood” today.

I decided to go to the fitness center and do some miles, hoping that my absence might put her in a better mood. I put some treats on the bed and she jumped up. I quickly left. When I returned and opened the door, Tommy wasn’t waiting, but came out a few minutes later.  The treats were still sitting on the bed.  I know that some were new and she might not like them, but I also put two of the turkey treats that she loves and those also were untouched.

After I finished showering, Tommy came up to me and seemed to be in a better mood. I moved to the sofa and she followed although she remained on the floor.  She rubbed my feet and I took that as a sign that her mood was improving. She allowed me to pet her and rolled over on her back. It looked like she wanted a neck rub, but I was wrong. As soon as I brought my hand near, she tried to bite it. She continues to baffle me.

I’m not sure why she no longer wants to sit on my lap or even sit on the sofa with me. She was much more affectionate when she first arrived. It now seems like she was growing more distant the longer she’s here. I’m hoping that sooner or later this “teenager” changes back into the affection cat that I love.

As I worked in the kitchen in the late afternoon, Tommy’s mood finally started to change. She came over by me and started rubbing against my legs. As I bent down by her, she continued rubbing and purred when I began petting her. I’m glad that given enough time, she finally decided to show me some love.  We then spent some time in the living room, her on the ottoman and me on the sofa.

After dinner I thought I’d again try to get her to play. We were able to play for a while with the flannel teaser and she finally appeared to be interested in interacting with me. When my sister called, Tommy amused herself and took care of some personal business. We later headed into the study and Tommy indicated that she wanted to play with the Cat’s Meow. Once it started she played with it for a while and then sat up on a chair to watch it. I came over and sat by her and for the first time in I can’t remember how long, she let me sit next to her and pet her while she watched her toy. To show her approval, she even licked my hand at one point.

When she left for a water break, I got caught up with the blog. She came back in and sat on her chair for a while. When she was ready to leave (or to let me know I had worked on the computer enough) she came over to me and very nicely told me to get up. We headed for the living room to play or sit and watch television.

During the evening we had a couple extended play times. It was good to have fun together again. At one point we played with the Cat Dancer; Tommy sat on her chair while I got to recline on the sofa.  For once, I wasn’t expending as much energy to get her to play.  We also used the laser pointer while I was on the sofa.

When Tommy started to tire, she went and sat in her usual spot on the living room floor. I knew that soon, we’d be going to the bedroom for the night.  Once she woke up was alert, I began shutting off lights and the T.V. When everything was done, I called Tommy from the bedroom door, but she wasn’t budging. 

When I went to her she got up, but wasn’t moving toward the bedroom. She just stood there, so I picked her up and took her to the bedroom. Other than a small whimper when I closed the bedroom door, there wasn’t resistance or complaints. She jumped down on the bed where she knew her bedtime snack was waiting.

I wasn’t sure what the night would bring, so I got into bed and hoped for the best.  Tommy was sitting on her scratching strip looking up at me. I said good night and turned off the light.  Within ten minutes, Tommy jumped up on the bed and settled in for the night. We had ended the day on a good note.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014: Buddha Returns

After going to sleep late, we also were up during the night. There were some storms and Tommy always gets spooked by the wind. She got her reassurances, but no play time. I had to get up early in the morning to go to my class, and poor Tommy wasn’t happy that after coming home late last night I would dart out again early in the day.

The good news was that with all the rain I would be taking the bus and that meant that I wouldn’t be gone as long. I took care of the morning necessities, gave Tommy her treats, petting and kiss and was off.

When I returned Tommy was patiently (?) waiting and let me know that I owed her extended petting and play periods. I needed to get on the computer quickly to find the images that had been used in class, so we did a shortened pet and play session with the promise of more to come.

While I worked on the computer, Tommy amused herself or came in and sat on/played with the Cat’s Meow. After I finished we had another round of pet and play.  We both seemed to have a pretty low energy level, so we did some additional short pet ‘n plays throughout the afternoon. Since I had taken the bus, I really should hit the fitness center. I justified not going because I had already been away from Tommy for too long in the last 24 hours.

I later regretted my decision. Tommy got in her Buddha where she just sits in front of the DVD racks and watches me. After quite a long time, I attempted to get her out of it with play. She played with the fleece teaser, but it wasn’t very enthusiastically. I tried various other toys and finally got her interested in the Cat Dancer. She played with it for quite a while and then needed a water/grass break. When she finished, she began playing with it again while seated on the chair next to the sofa, where I was reclining. That worked for a while but then she went back to Buddha mode on the chair. Well, I had tried and as least she was close by me.

When it was time for bed which was later than normal, I went to lock the door and turn off the light. Tommy followed me and I had a misguided belief that this would continue into the bedroom.  As I headed for the bedroom, Tommy moved under the dining table. I took a while to coax her out, but she finally moved back by the DVD racks. I picked her up and took her into the bedroom.

She complained loudly by the door and wasn’t budging. I tried giving her a bedtime snack as usual but she only came up to the bed but wouldn’t jump on it to retrieve the treat. I finally picked her up and put her on the bed where she quickly ate the treats and then headed under the bed. She complained while under the bed, so I decided to go to bed. She came out and went in to Buddha mode by the bookcases. I turned out the light knowing that this wasn’t over and it was going to be a long night and an early morning.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014: Reading Signals

When I got up during the night there was Tommy laying at me feet. This has become her usual night sleeping spot. She woke up around 6:00 and wanted to play, but since I wasn’t moving, she amused herself.  I fell back to sleep and woke up at 7:00. Tommy was hiding under the bed, but came darting out when I neared the door. I gave her the morning petting/rub down, and then opened the door so she could quickly “escape.”

She went out and headed to her water dish which I filled with fresh water, but once it was filled, she showed me that my first attempt at the morning petting hadn’t been sufficient and I needed to try again.  Once that was accomplished, I opened the balcony door so Tommy could enjoy some fresh air. I realized that I hadn’t put on my glasses, so I left to get them.  By the time I returned, Tommy was already finished at the screen door and was enjoying a morning grass snack.  I figured that this was a good time to do the quick printing on the computer.

When I returned Tommy was sitting among her toys which told me that since I had missed the early morning play session, I had better attend the regular morning session. I thought that I could quickly put on the coffee, but right before I finished, Tommy came and pulled on the carpeting, telling me that I’d better hurry up as her patience was waning.

I quickly finished and brought out the fleece teaser. We played for a while and I thought that I could move her toward the blinds so I could open them. She followed, but then pulled the fleece back to her preferred spot by the toys. It took a couple attempts, but I was able to open the blinds. Each time I tried Tommy would grab the fleece and pull it back to her desired spot. I tried moving to various chairs, but each time Tommy would grab it and return to her spot.

I knew that this segment of play time was over when Tommy headed for the screen door. I thought maybe I could grab coffee, but as I headed toward the kitchen, I was summoned to follow her into the study. I grabbed my coffee and went to the study.

When I arrived, there she sat on the Cat’s Meow. It was time to turn it on. As she played, I moved around some books. I had noticed that the Harry Potter books were on her favorite shelf and since she enjoyed chewing on book covers, I decided that I’d rather put the expendable a.k.a. sacrificial books there. As I moved them around Tommy stopped and watched. She probably was trying to figure out her human’s weird actions.

As I worked on the computer, Tommy amused herself with the Cat’s Meow, jumping on and off her chair and running around the condo. We stopped and ate breakfast and when we returned and turned on Cat’s Meow again, it needed the batteries replaced. Once that was done, it worked much faster and Tommy spent more time playing with it. Of course, throughout the day there were the usual, “play with me; the Cat’s Meow stopped because I’m sitting on it; I want to play with the Cat’s Meow, but only if you’re watching me, etc.” times.

Around 4:00 Tommy stood by the teasers and let me know that she wanted a little play time. We got out the fish teaser and we played for about 15 minutes. I always enjoy it when I know that she wants to play and doesn’t make me go through the entire inventory before choosing a toy.

I had a ticket for the Brewers game, so Tommy was going to spend the night with the Games Network. She readily came in to the bedroom knowing that if Daddy was leaving there would be treats, and of course she was right.

When I returned we played for a while, but knowing that I had class in the morning I had to finish much quicker than I wanted. Tommy was catching on to the fact that the laser pointer heads into the bedroom and that’s been how I’ve lured her in for the night, but somehow it still worked.

I knew that Tommy would be up sometime during the night, but at least she began the night up on the bed, and she would probably be there when I woke up in the morning.

Monday, September 8, 2014: Tommy Knows the Treat Routine

I did get up a couple times during the night and each time I found Tommy on the foot of the bed. She would always awaken, but would just lift her head up to check out if what I was doing was “approved.”  At a little before 7:00 we got up and started our day.

After the usual morning chores and petting, Tommy took care of herself while I showered and got ready for class. When I turned on the television and closed the window, Tommy jumped up on the bed looking for her “good-bye” treats. Although I wasn’t leaving for a while, I gave her the treats and explained that just because I wasn’t leaving for a little while, this didn’t mean that she’d finagled her way into a second good-bye treat.

Tommy seemed to be okay when I left. I think she might finally be realizing that I’ve always returned. When I got home there she was at the bedroom door waiting to greet me.  When she sat in her usual “treat spot,” I knew that she expected her “I’m back” treat.  It was given and then we had and extended petting/rubbing session. She really seemed to be mending fences or she was leading me into a fool’s paradise where we would live together happily ever after. Either way, I was happy for her recent change of heart.

We played a little and then Tommy let me know that it was time for a break. After drinking some water she headed into the bedroom for her late morning nap or meal. When I returned, Tommy was waiting for me in the living room and let me know that I had taken too long. We had another round of petting, rubbing, and playing. While I was finishing a puzzle, Tommy headed behind her chair by the window. When I went to look for her we had a rousing game of peek-a-boo. Tommy then took a grass and water break while I headed back to the computer. She then joined me in the study sunning herself by the window while I worked.

After a short rest, Tommy jumped up for some attention and then headed out to wait for me.  When I got out there Tommy was sitting by the fishing rod toy, so I thought that’s what she wanted. After several attempts at play, I gave up and we just sat there until she had a slight coughing episode. Either she’s getting a cold or had a slight hairball issue, but it seemed to pass, so we went back to our other activities.

We spent a quiet evening watching television and playing before heading to bed.  When I turned out the lights in the living room, Tommy headed into the bedroom all by herself. When I entered, she was waiting by the bed. She knew that her evening snack would be put on the bed, but I’m sure that she decided not to exert any energy until she knew that the goods were there. With her snack eaten, I was able to get into bed, wished her a good night, and turned out the lights.

Sunday, September 7, 2014: The Incident and the Return of the Loving Cat

I was awakened at 4:12 A.M. by Tommy’s yelling, but it didn’t stop there.  She proceeded to push my water bottle off the end table,  run around, loudly using her scratching post and just making a din that could probably wake up the entire east side. Usually she entertains herself when I asleep and only wakes me if it’s necessary, like when there’s a storm.

When I tried to calm her down she brought over toys or yelled all the louder.  I hadn’t been feeling well, and lack of sleep also hadn’t helped. When I got up to use the bathroom she kept trying to step in front of me. It was so hard in near darkness not to step on her. She yelled loudly when we walked past the bedroom door expecting me to open it and let her “have at” the entire condo while I slept.

It was at this point that I lost it. I yelled back, letting her know that I was sick and needed sleep. I also let her know that she had had plenty of opportunities to play during the day, but that she hadn’t wanted to play. My final words were something to the effect that I was going back to sleep and I expected to be able to sleep in my bed for as long as I wanted unless there was an emergency.

I knew that Tommy wouldn’t understand what I was saying, but she would know how I felt.  I went back to bed not knowing what would happen next. Amazingly I didn’t wake up again until 7:15 A.M. I found Tommy asleep near my feet on the bed. A much tamer kitty greeted me.

As we started our daily routine, Tommy was wary but accepting of my actions. At 8:00 I received a text from my aunt stating that they were leaving Oshkosh for Madison. I had planned on meeting my aunt and uncle who live in North Carolina, but were visiting Wisconsin in Madison to see my other aunt. I didn’t know how Tommy would handle this after the night that we had just experienced.

As I got ready, I could tell that Tommy knew what was happening. If a cat can show sadness, Tommy did at that point. I tried to reassure her that I’d be back soon and gave her some treats to help compensate for her loss of face time with me. This was probably the hardest it’s ever been to leave Tommy.

When I returned I could tell that my little friend was back. We spent some time showing affection to each other. I had picked up a new toy. I was still searching for toys that she liked. We have several with which she has showed no interest in playing. This new “fishing rod” with bobber, worm and fish seemed to do the trick. We had fun playing with it and hopefully she will continue to enjoy it for a while. I will continue to reintroduce some of the “failed” toys to see if she has a change of heart.

Tommy decided to take a midafternoon nap in the bedroom and I headed for the study to catch up on some of my work. Later, she, of course, came to check up on me and let me know that I hadn’t been paying enough attention to her lately. We spent some time playing and I gave her more of the petting that she loves.  When it was time to eat, I put my dinner on the placemat on the table and Tommy jumped up on her chair to keep me company while I ate.  She hadn’t done that in a while, so it was good to see. Of course, I don’t eat quickly enough for her, so near the end, she grew weary of watching me eat and decided that a snack of grass would be appropriate.

Later as we watched Big Brother, Tommy headed for the bedroom.  During the next commercial I went in and found her laying on the bed on her “catghan.” I decided to join her on the bed and watch BB in there. She seemed to me content to have me laying nearby and we settled in for a time. After the program I did the dishes which told Tommy that it was almost play time.

We had another round of play, but Tommy didn’t last too long before calling it quits and settling down in the living room near her toys.  I got ready for bed and then watched the news.  When it was time for bed, I went and got Tommy who came in all by herself and jumped up on the bed for her nightly snack.   

After finishing final bed preparations, we both were on the bed in our usual spots. Tommy seemed to have returned to her normal contented life without the drama and biting, but with the love and play that we both enjoyed. I was so glad to have my Tommy back!