Jake was an abandoned cat that I rescued one day, while feeding a small group of feral cats. He now lives happily with me and my other three cats, all of whom I love dearly.
While feeding "Halo" a shy but handsome feral cat one day, I noticed some movement behind him in the woods. It was early evening and it was hard to discern the shadowy figure. I tried to get closer to the animal, but he scampered away in the thick concealment of the underbrush that lined the tiny, quiet, road.
The next day, when feeding "Halo" the shadowy figure turned out to be another feline. He just sat in the middle of the old country road and stared silently at me. Someone had obviously abandoned him and he was still in a startled and confused state.
He was a large gray and white male, ruffled and bloodied, probably from fighting other feral cats. He looked extremely sad and distraught. I mean his face said it all. He was very unhappy and pathetic looking. I surmised that he was not on his own all that long by the way he acted.
He was not really fearful of me, but rather more curious as to what my intentions toward him might be.
Being an animal lover and having three cats of my own, I had to help him. I managed to lure him close to me with a bowl of food, but he would not allow me to touch him. I stayed with him for quite awhile, speaking softly, and hoping he would make contact with me, but he gently declined by keeping his distance. I was not about to give up, knowing it was just a matter of time before he would submit to my kindness.
I returned the next day and "Jake" allowed me to feed him and be placed in a carrier, for a short trip to my Veterinarian. "Jake" never once uttered a sound while in the carrier. He acted like a perfect little gentleman. This trusting behavior confirmed my suspicions that he once lived in a home where he was loved and well treated.
"Jake" was also a big hit at the Veterinarian's office. The girls that helped treat him, also wanted to adopt him when I told them of his plight. I politely declined their offers, and after a day of neutering and shots, "Jake" was headed home to meet his new family.
"Jake" has become a very gentle, loving, feline and he has an incredible way of expressing himself. He was accepted by my other three cats immediately and they romp and play together for hours. He is very happy now and we love him dearly.
I also found a home for "Halo", who now lives happily with a friend of mine and four other friendly felines. A little bit of compassion can go a long way, if you just give life a chance.
