Feral cats are funny animals. They aren't completely wild but they aren't pets either. There is a fine line you walk when a feral cat is in your life. Like any cat they are the ones in charge and you are there simply at their whim.
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| Priscilla |
It's a hard position - like any pet you want to do what's best for them and protect them but there is only so far you can go. You may be able to provide food and even shelter. It is their choice though if they will show up to eat or use the shelter provided.
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| Skittles |
Despite our help they live difficult lives. Living outdoors in the elements, facing the dangers of cars and other animals. These lives are often short.
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| O'Tom |
Over the years we've been fortunate to know a number of these cats.
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| Bug |
It seems almost every place we've lived cats have come to our door. They have a sense of where they will be welcomed I think.
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| Tom Jones |
Sadly, their time with us never seems to last nearly long enough. I don't often write about these cats because their lives are so precarious. They come and go at their own leisure and sometimes they simply don't show up again.
This time though is different. A week ago Priscilla disappeared. Some of you may recognize her as she's been a permanent fixture here on the Corner for the past 3 years.
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| Priscilla this past August |
She is such a sweet girl and we're missing her terribly. Knowing the lives of feral cats you shouldn't get too attached but regardless we loved her.
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| Priscilla and her companion Funnyface |
It's been a tough week, every day the chances of seeing her again dropping significantly. Her constant companion, Funnyface, is still here so we know she was on her own when she went missing.
And yet despite the heartbreak we had good news today. Back in April we took on a new feral cat named Pixie. The house she was residing at was being sold and we decided to try and rehouse her with our own cats. It did not work out. Despite keeping her in our house for a month to try and acclimatize her, the minute she stepped outside Pixie ran away.
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| Pixie |
Today I received a phone call. Pixie is alive and well. After spending the summer on the run she has decided to settle down with a nice family up the road from us. I'm so very happy for her.
