When I was finally ready to think about it, *someone* put their foot down: no more pets! Then, a couple weeks later, it was "no more pets before we go on vacation". Last week, *someone* decided while we were in Windsor that we would stop at the humane society on the way home. Of course, that someone was looking at dogs, our 13yo and I looked at the numerous cats and kittens. Sadly, it did not surprise me that there were SO many kittens, a lot of people don't feel it's important to spay or neuter a cat. (side note: if you have EVER had a female cat go into heat, you would NEVER consider NOT spaying a female ever, ever, ever again! The added benefit of neutering a male: if he has not yet sprayed, chances are, after the surgery, he will not spray. Cat spray is as much a desired fragrance as skunk spray. Not quite as potent, but definitely pungent.)
We humoured my husband and did look at the dogs--if we didn't have two already, I would certainly have considered one or two of them!--then suggested he look at the cats with us.
The result: we brought our 16yo back the next day to help pick one out.
After 'test driving' 4 kittens ranging from 2-9 months, three of us couldn't agree. I was easy. We took a few minutes to discuss things outside, then went back in and saw a 2 month old calico kitten, similar to the older one my husband had looked at. An assistant showed us into what I shall call the visitor's room, brought in the kitten, and we ALL agreed.
Now, technically, we are only fostering her until a week after her appointment in July to be spayed. I didn't ask what they do with people who don't show up for the appointment, but curiosity may force me to ask in July. Hopefully they chase the people down and either retrieve the animal, or force the 'foster parents' to bring the animal in for the surgery. I'm sure most people who see the result of people refusing to take responsibility for their pets wouldn't consider avoiding the appointment, though. (says Sally hopefully)
My husband picked up little Cairo the next day, and she has certainly made herself at home. One coincidence: the birthdate on her papers happens to be the same day my sister Sue (1968-2002) was born--March 17th.
A week later, Cairo still tries to play with our older cat, who seems to have forgotten what it was like being the new kid on the block and trying to make friends with a grumpy older resident...she is warming up a bit to the dogs, today I even caught her laying on her back trying to swat our part sheperd's tail as he stood in front of my husband wagging it. I imagine that must be tempting to a young kitten! And, little Cairo doesn't hiss and growl if one of the dogs gets too close, as long as they don't move too quickly.
I have discovered that Cairo likes my laptop. The computer too...but the laptop more. When it's closed, she lays on top of it. When someone is using it, she walks across it. Which can lead to some momentary confusion when your top toolbar suddenly disappears, or you can't scroll or click on anything.
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