Another stray cat thread.

[RiffRandell]

OK, so tonite is the coldest night of the year down here. I have an old dog and an old cat. Last spring a cat started hanging out here and I started feeding her. I knew she "belonged" 3 houses down and I talked to her "owners" and they said she didn't get along with their cat so she just adopted any family that would feed her. Well, I ran into her owner today, and told her she's mine now, because she happily lives here (and gets along with my old cat) and I brought her to the vet and spent $120 and she has all her shots. The woman was very thankful. There now is a new cat hanging here and I have been feeding her and set up a bed in my garage tonite because it is so cold. I just looked out and she was in the bed and then I tried to shut the garage, and she freaked and took off. I hope she comes back---my husband says she will. I feel so bad for animals that can't trust people---but I understand. I just don't want her to be out in the cold tonite.

[freeplessinseattle]

1. bless your heart. I'm sure she'll be back, just a bit skittish, but she

wants to be warm, wants to trust. I've seen a lot of cats go from hesitant trust to incredibly trusting and affectionate, it just takes time, some more than others. Where there's food and warmth, and good vibes, she'll be back.

My girl took a long time to even feel comfortable lying on the bed, and it was a big deal when she layed beside me on the couch, then partailly on my lap, then full on my lap. then eventually, after a few years, she was even comfortabel with being held-and purred at the same time! now that she's the only pet since she came to live with me rather than with my parents she has really blossomed even more, now even lies on her back with her legs widespread, lets me pet her belly and her neck, play bats me lightly with her paws, such a difference!

let us know if the poor kitty comes back, and thank you for being such a kind heart!

[nini]

2. I've had cats and dogs like that

they eventually adjust - just give her time. Is there a way to put blankets in a box or something in a somewhat sheltered area to shield her a bit from the elements?

good luck. You've done a wonderful thing.

[Contrary1]

3. I have two ferals

that are at the back door every night at 6 for their dinner. One has been coming for 3 years, and will still not allow us to touch her. She blessed us with 6 kittens last year. Luckily, we were able to catch them before they became too wild, and all went to new homes.

Shortly thereafter, I was able to trap the mother (Scarlet is her name), and had her spayed. The vet said Scarlet had been around the block quite a few times. She was so scared, I released her a few days later.

She's here every night. Now that there has been a lot of new homes built on old farmland around here, I sometimes notice her hanging around during the daylight hours. I would love to just hold her on my lap, but I think she has been wild her whole life. Such a beautiful long haired cat. (Sigh)

Anyway, most cats that have been outside are able to fend for themselves pretty well. Just keep putting food out, she'll be back.
You might try making an outdoor shelter. I fashioned one by putting a heavy plastic tarp over our picnic table, making sure there were two different ways in and out. The feral rescue group here told me that most wild cats will not use a shelter with just one opening.

Pick out a name in case she decides to keep you.

[Baja Margie]

4. You are a good person.