First Times – Alma

Took my boy to the vet yesterday. I’m still getting used to a cat who merely tries to back away from his exam, rather than claw and bite at the very appearance of a medical professional. Still, no picnic for either of us; he "vocalized" vigorously throughout the painstakingly long drives there and back.

It’s a familiar cat-wants-out-of-the-box cry one hears now and then at Maddie’s during little transports between areas. There are several new cats on the main floor. I meet peppy little Alma, a 10 year old "leader of the band," who’s happy for company and interested in the goings on she can see from her windows. She’s a tortie with a little white, who has a friendly, affectionate manner. She perches on one of my legs, purring while I pet her, but also keeping an eye on the hall.

Next door, new arrival Wolfie watches from above. He’s a gorgeous snowshoe mix, who looks like the type who would hop right up on the examining table. Across the hall, there’s a sweet and pretty tabby and white girl named Tigger. She’s nervous around other cats, but a soft purring sweetie with people.

I help a woman who’s accompanied by several teenagers. We check out a couple kittens, but they’re deemed too shy. The kids seem eager, the woman less so, for a trip down to the Macy’s windows.

A first time cat adopter, along with her experienced cat guy friend, come with a list of potential cats already scoped out from the website. They’ve already narrowed it to just the right type of cat for her, and we proceed to meet several. She favors the shy but cuddly types. Both the friend and I talk about how the cautious ones are likely to come out of their shells in a safe secure home.

She’s taking her time, really committing to the process, and decides she would like to come back again for a second round after she’s prepared her home for a new pet. I’m pleased that a couple of my favorite gals, Stella and Jojo, appear to have made the cut – never mind being her first cat, it seems like she’ll make a good home for a lucky kitty.

As I’m getting ready to leave, a new young volunteer, who’s just graduated to the maroon apron phase (meaning can facilitate adoptions), proudly points out a woman who’s going to take home Tigger. I offer heartfelt congratulations. Nothing like your first successful kitty adoption.

Happy Holidays; back (airlines willing!) toward the end of the year.