Last February, when I was recovering from major surgery at Mi Casita, my friend Barb Hess said, “Vera, have you arranged for someone to give your two cats a home should something happen to you?”
Barb had been caring for them during the 2 months I was incapacitated. She continued, “I’ve known them since they were kittens. They will not do well at the animal shelter. Niño might find a home, but Blanca probably not and separated, they wouldn’t be happy.”
The thought of this eventuality repelled me, but recently I have realized each brother would pine for me and his litter mate once I was gone if they were separated. Why should my beautiful, healthy, 2-year-old cats be put to sleep because of my selfishness and cowardly refusal to face the facts of an aging life. They are this “loner’s” best friends and deserve to live long, contented lives. After all, my Siamese, Mingo, died after 17 good years.
Everyday, here in paradise we see deserted, beautiful street dogs seeking food and water. Their owners here 6 months, then leaving them helpless, to fend for themselves. Perhaps an elderly owner passed away without providing for his or her pet’s future. Deserted cats can be viewed in the large area provided for them at the Animal Shelter, where Barb works. Some are adopted, others are mercifully put to sleep. Occasionally, one is taken home by Barb as a “foster” child. Barb knows and loves my cats, but she has cats enough already. I feel strongly that I don’t want my beloved pair to become unwanted orphans.
A little over 2 years ago, Niño and Blanco, age 5 months appeared in my garden begging for food. I couldn’t resist the lovely Russian blue kitten Niño, so beautiful, I wanted him to be mine. Blanco was such a scruffy, dirty white, I immediately relegated him to “outdoor” cat status. However, within a few weeks, I took this wonderful cat of possible Siamese ancestry into my heart and home. This loving creature talks to me. I understand the meaning of every meow. Niño communicates with squeaks. Blanco is more affectionate than the gorgeous but reserved Niño. I promised them they will never be homeless again.
These animals have lived in a sheltered environment since first being allowed to enter the casita. The house and garden are totally surrounded by high walls. Both cats love to go outside. They run out the door every chance they get, but never leave my protected area. Blanco, the adventurous one likes to scamper up the wall to dance on the surrounding roof tops, while a confused Niño gazes up at him as if to say, “How does he do that?”
I try to leave the garden door slightly open for them, but they both know all they have to do to enter the house is to cry at the door to be let in for sandbox, food or water. The two respond to the word “treat” when I want them inside. They have been loved and protected for over 2 years now and would not be able to fend for themselves. When I am no longer in this world, they will need someone to take care of them. Having them put to sleep is unthinkable.
What I wish to convey here is please, somebody, I have 2 wonderful cats, who will need a home in the future, hopefully not tomorrow; but there are health problems and old age sooner or later catches up with everyone. Please phone me and then come out and meet the 3 of us. You will want to pet and play with the cats, perhaps help to feed them. I want their future loved one or ones to meet them, become loved by them, to be their friend or fiends for now. One does not wish to leave them friendless and homeless in this world.
Cats cry and so do the owners, who must leave then someday.
Cat lovers Phone me, Vera Sommers, 766-2751.
