Introducing Percival

I am pleased to present to readers a new guest at the Cosy Apartment. Meet Percival.

Percival had been coming for some months to feed at my work-place whenever the feral colony there had its meals. He was, however, clearly not feral. I could not only touch him, pet him, rub his head, but he encouraged it. Had he a home and was simply supplementing his menu? It is possible, but his coat has the shaggy, unkempt look of one that is continuously outside. He is also unneutered. I decided to bring him in.

Because of unforeseen complications in arranging his veterinary visit, he spent much of today in a carrier at my work-place. Initially, of course, he wanted out. I will have to retire that particular carrier, as Percival was able merely to push his way out of it. A strong, big-headed cat, he exerted enough pressure to lift the nuts securing the door upward; their threads are probably worn away. But, possibly characteristic of his nature, he allowed me to pick him up and put him back in the carrier, its door now reinforced. Thereafter, he seemed resigned to his fate, and fell asleep.

He will go for his neuter-surgery tomorrow afternoon. Until then, and afterward for a little while, he will stay in my bathroom, at least until he uses the litter-box there. Right now, he seems to be grateful for the comforts he has, even if they are a bit restricted. He ate a good dinner, drank some water and almost immediately settled into the cat-bed I provided him.

Percival appears to have a Horace-like affection for people and the attention they can give him. He has several times rolled onto his back to invite chest-rubs, and leans into a hand that is rubbing his fuzzy head. He will be available for adoption in a few weeks, maybe a month or two, depending upon how well I get to know him in that time. But, so far, my latest visitor is ready to enjoy any and every human.