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I spotted her outside when my beloved cat Rhiannon had to spend two consecutive nights at the vet's and I missed her so. This cat is also black and I thought it was odd that she always seemed to be around, day or night. I had a bad feeling, so I started leaving food out for her. After the first time, she showed up like clockwork, at the same time everyday.
Afte a few days, she showed up late at night, as well. I was sitting right where I am now, at the computer, and she walked right by the glass door next to me and jumped off the deck. I just knew that she was looking for me because she was probably hungry. I put another can of food into a dish and put it out on the deck. I waited, but she didn't come back.
About 20 minutes later, my two dogs wanted to go out, so I took them out in front, and spotted this cat, hunkered down under the tree, in the place I always left her food, waiting for me. After this, I fed her at night, also.
One evening, I was outside, watching her eat, when my neighbor pulled up and apologized for scaring this cat. She said she was so glad I was feeding this cat because she had, as well. She told me that she believed that the cat had belonged to our neighbor, who had moved. She thought that this cat had gotten away from her, as she had several. I had known this neighbor because I had rescued her dog when he had gotten loose, several times, and she was very grateful. Why didn't she tell me if she had lost a cat?
This was 1 1/2 years ago. I have since borrowed a ``have-a-heart'' trap from a local animal hospital to, finally, bring this kitty inside. I kept thinking she would come around, but she never did. The weather kept getting worse and we had our first snow and I knew I couldn't wait any longer to bring her in. I was a wreck, worrying what might become of her. I just knew I had to do something.
The night I finally trapped her, I couldn't believe my eyes. I had gotten advice from this amazing woman who works with local ferals, often bringing them into her home. She told me that my cat must have belonged to someone, but had ``lost trust.'' I know, now, that she was right.
I finally got her with tuna fish, which she will not eat to this day. I called the animal hospital to tell them that I was bringing her in and I was so freaked out that it took me four times to dial the phone. My neighbor, kindly, drove me to the animal hospital that night and I was so grateful. I was so overwrought I probably would have hit a tree.
My cat has been treated and has long been back home with me. I know now that she was a housecat, left to fend for herself, but she must know she is safe now. I read ``The Stray Cat Handbook'' and sent for articles from ``Alley Cat Allies,'' who manage feral colonies. My cat, who just ran away from me when I stretched out my hand, must know I am not the enemy. I feed her, bring her treats and toys, clean her box and talk to her quietly. She must know by now that she has nothing to fear from me.
Despite all this, she still runs from me. She is happy as an indoor cat again, but is still very afraid of people. She has been through so much, but she must know, by now, that I am okay. She is sitting about ten feet away, under the table, looking at me. Yes, it is time for her canned food. I will get it for her. She has dry food available all the time, plus treats, but has gotten used to her schedule.
I know I have gone on far too long about my half-feral scaredy cat, but I am discouraged. Yes, there is a cat must more anti-social than yours. I am going to get her food now. Good luck to you and any advice to me would be appreciated.:shrug:
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