Imogen's Decision

Today was a red-letter day for Imogen. She had been coming out from her hiding spots in the library with increasing frequency since her arrival on Wednesday. This afternoon, she must have decided that someone other than her former human can be trusted. I and a friend from the rescue-group, who had come to see the new arrival, spent about half an hour with Imogen, during which she allowed – indeed, encouraged – us to pet her and stroke her. She pushed her head against our hands, arched her back and lie down in front of us.

As may be seen from some of the pictures, she was quite at ease during the visit. She felt comfortable enough to roam about the room, climbing Min’s cat-tree and spending time on the bookcase under the window (she likes the view from there), relaxing on other bookcases and climbing on to the couch.

I can pick her up, which is something that would be necessary when preparing to take her to the veterinary hospital, though she does not care, at least at this point, for being on someone’s lap. Her coat is in very good condition, smooth and without dandruff. We were not able to get a good look at her teeth, but her ears appear clean, without mites, though there is a small amount of wax. Her weight is very good for her size; perhaps a little too good. I think she could lose a pound.

The appraisal of Imogen’s health may have been superficial but she doesn’t seem to need an immediate veterinary visit. I am glad of this, as it gives her a week or so further to settle in before she is yet again stuffed into a carrier. From the sounds she was making last night, I thought that she might be going into heat, but her behaviour is otherwise today. In fact, her nipples are quite undeveloped, which suggests that she might, after all, be spayed. This, of course, is far from definite.

Nonetheless, Imogen has taken a great stride forward today. I feel confident in letting her out briefly to see the other cats, perhaps tomorrow. She is a long way from being released permanently, but I don’t believe any improvement will be gained by delaying the start of her integration. I will bear in mind my mistake in rushing Zofia’s integration: the actual introduction of the kitten into the cat population was satisfactory; her complete freedom should probably have been phased in more gradually. But Imogen is no eager and enthusiastic kitten, though she does want to see what is behind the library door. She may set her own limits on interaction. If she doesn’t, I will be ready to ensure a gradual acceptance.