I’m excited! Salma, the scared kitten, no longer needs me. Instead the rescue centre are giving me two gorgeous adult female cats, Alba and Luna. Both with some Norwegian Forest cat in them (think of a miniature version of the Mane Coon!). And both seriously scared.
They lost their home a few months ago when their owners were evicted. The owners had to make the terribly difficult decision to give up their beloved cats because they could no longer care for them.
Sadly Alba and Luna have not adapted well to being at the center. Alba particularly has become withdrawn. She is not eating and is terrified of everything. Being in with lots of other cats she doesn’t know is making her worse. Luna on the other hand is doing better with the other cats but is still nervous and scared of the activity at the centre.
I have respect for anyone who makes this decision under genuine situations beyond their control. However, it is a stark reminder that giving up your pet should not automatically relieve your conscience. It’s better than abandoning an animal in a carrier in a public place or dropping them in the bin. However, many animals received into rescue centres do not survive the stress of their abandonment or they become unadoptable as a result.
I’m hoping I can help them with their mental health so that they are adoptable, and find their forever home.
To prepare for their arrival I must buy a range of food to help them gain weight. And provide plenty of hiding places for them to choose from. I’ve already ordered some new fishing rod toy attachments and chew sticks. So we shall be fully equipped for the exciting new arrivals.
