Last night, despite the circumstances, proved to be remarkably peaceful.
I advised my spouse, Peter, not to anticipate a restful night’s sleep. This suggestion stemmed from the fact that Peter, unfamiliar with feline companionship, was introduced to our newly adopted cat just the day before.
Throughout the years, I have cared for multiple cats. However, my previous feline companion, Lucy, passed away shortly before I met Peter a decade ago. In contrast, Peter has been accustomed to canine companionship his entire life, lacking experience with cats, which inevitably intrigues every feline he encounters.
Our decision to adopt a Mexican cat and include it in our travels to and from Mexico led us to our initial meeting with Felix last Saturday.
Felix, an adolescent cat of unknown age due to his stray origins, was estimated by the compassionate rescuers, Marcela, her sister Elena, and Elena’s daughter Daniela, to be around 5 months old. During their introductory visit, Felix exhibited remarkable composure, lounging on the sofa as if at ease in his new surroundings.
Commenting on his serene demeanor, I remarked to them, “What a relaxed kitty!”
“He is quite laid-back,” responded Elena.
Following the acquisition of essential supplies, Felix was officially welcomed into our home. Despite Daniela’s evident attachment to him, I reassured her by showcasing the provisions we had prepared for Felix, including a cozy bed, a litter box, a carrier for future travels, and a set of matching bowls. With Daniela’s reluctant approval, she entrusted her little companion to us for his inaugural night.
However, Felix’s tranquility was disrupted in the wee hours when a commotion outside our bedroom roused Peter from his slumber. Investigating the disturbance, I discovered minor mischief had occurred, with the garbage can overturned and bread crumbs scattered across the floor.
“Oh, Felix!” I exclaimed.
Upon my exclamation, Felix approached me affectionately, nuzzling against me while I tidied up the scattered crumbs, emitting a contented purr throughout.
Eventually, we drifted back to sleep, only to be awakened later by persistent meowing growing increasingly louder.
Marcela and Elena, known for their compassionate rescue efforts for street animals, currently cared for an assortment of 11 dogs and three cats, infusing their home with lively energy. In the stillness of the night, Felix awoke to find himself alone in the room, a situation that likely caught him off guard.
“Felix!” I called out reassuringly. “We’re here!” Responding to my voice, Felix hurried back to the bedroom, leaping onto the bed to join us, his purring resonating in the room.
Thus far, Felix appears content in his newfound abode. He has eagerly explored Peter’s bedside table, discovering intriguing objects to play with during nocturnal escapades. Additionally, he has uncovered the thrill of tipping over the garbage can and engaging with its contents. Most importantly, he has found solace in the presence of the two slumbering individuals in bed, who, in moments of uncertainty, offer comforting chin scratches.
It seems that Felix is adapting well to his novel lifestyle, embracing the joys and discoveries that each day brings.