I recently published an entry describing Raleigh’s integration in the household. I may be harping on Peachy’s adjustments to life at the cosy apartment a bit too much, but the progress this very timid fellow has made makes me feel very good. With me, he has made strides, especially recently, allowing me to walk past him and even up to him without scurrying away. I can pick him up, without a struggle on his part (not without reluctance, however); I hold him very briefly, give him a kiss on the top of his fuzzy head, then put him down. I think this demonstrates to him that being picked up doesn’t always lead to horrific consequences, such as clipped nails or eye-drops. And I have shown pictures of him on the bed with Josie and Renn; those two, and especially my Chubs, are pretty easy on new cats.
But what made me feel especially good was Tucker deciding to come up onto the bed when Raleigh was already there. I was at the computer next the bed yesterday evening when I saw Tucker amble hesitantly into the bedroom. He knew that the Peach was already in place and spent about five minutes determining his course of action. Eventually, despite my urgings, the roly poly turned and walked out. But not two minutes later, he surprised me by climbing up the short staircase at the bed’s foot and lying down. True, he was wary, and seemed not really to relax, but he made the effort and took the chance. Raleigh didn’t move; I imagine he was too comfortable. Both cats remained on the bed for about twenty minutes.
Seeing a cat learn to trust is heart-warming. It isn’t rescue’s purpose, since rescuing animals is not about how they interact with humans, but about how to better their lives. This may involve socialisation, it may not. But when it does, such progress is a visible reward for efforts which sometimes don’t receive any recognition from the animals themselves and, indeed, should not require any. Even so, when someone like Raleigh accepts his roommates, both human and feline, he is, in a way, saying “thank you”. And that is always nice to hear.
I particularly love that last photo. :)
ReplyDeleteIt’s one of the best things in the world when any creature who’s seen hard times can find not only a comfortable home, but love. I’m so glad his integration continues.
I love that last photo too. And learning of his progress and his very real thank you makes my evening brighter. I am so grateful to you for your patience and gentleness. Without those, his future would be bleak.
ReplyDeleteYes, yes, yes, that really is a most wonderful thank you.
ReplyDeleteIt is a nice bonus of rescue though :)
ReplyDeleteAwe good on you roomies. Miss Pops will allow a quick pick up and tolerate a kiss to the head too, before the protesting starts and she starts to struggle.
ReplyDeleteI, too, love that last photo, it's wonderful. His integration is progressing well. ♥
ReplyDeleteAll the photos are great,but the last one is terrific. It takes time, patience and love to get an animal to trust both humans and the other resident cats, but when that finally happens, it makes all our efforts and hard work worth it.
ReplyDeleteNever two days the same..living with a
ReplyDeletepussy~cat or Pussy~cats..they are certainly
characters in there own way..and never
frightened to try something new..and will
always express their thanks..Bless them!x
To see multiple cats so close together is a welcome sight for all of you. I really enjoy seeing the picture of Raleigh alone in the last photo. Such a good shot of him. Precious is still very edgy after 7 years with me. Any loud sound or unexpected movement will send her running away for cover. So glad your household is trying to live together without too much strife.
ReplyDeleteHis waistcoat has expanded too!
ReplyDeleteAs the kitties would say, "Pawsome!" I'm so glad Raliegh is learning to trust and it is being returned by the other cats as well.
ReplyDeleteLooks like the throw at the end of the bed is a prized napping locale. And...you know...he is peachy!
ReplyDeleteIndeed, most like the foot of the bed with the extra soft padding but Cammie, disdaining the company of common folk, prefers the head of the bed, against the pillows.
DeleteA picture speaks a thousand words and looking at the family being together shows they are all doing grand.
ReplyDeleteIt is good to see him sharing space with the others, but that last photo says it all. He looks happy, relaxed and at home.
ReplyDeleteIt is so heartwarming to see how relaxed your "peachy" is! It is a process to get them to trust us but once they do, it's forever.
ReplyDelete