Barn Cats

We have a barn cat. No barn but we have a cat for it once we get one. Theodora was discovered with her head deep inside an empty can in our recycling box. I caved and fed the mangy thing. She was skinny and malnurished that day with a soar under her front arm. She ate a large bowlful of the kibble we presented her and then threw it up. That was just the beginning.



Theodora

We contacted both the Humane Society and the SPCA but given how many homeless cats are out there, we decided to foster her until her family claimed her. She had to belong to someone, we reasoned. She was declawed, which meant she was probably fixed as well. Weeks passed and no one claimed her, although we did get two phone calls for a similar cat but both people said their cats had claws. She's been with us for two months and I am afraid to say we are stuck with her.

I started letting her outside. Since she has been keeping to the back laundry room exclusively, huddled on a top shelf, out of range of our other three cats who all have claws. She is somewhat out numbered, but she's also a bit of a freak. She draws attention to herself when anyone walks by and begins hissing and striking the offending intruder as if she has not yet realized she is without claws. Like a bully victim she is relentlessly teased by the other three and Theodora has not figured out that by being such a spaz she has placed a target on her back.

I haven't the heart to take her to the SPCA. She has bit me numerous times, while I was trying to feed her no less. It doesn't hurt but it leaves a mark. And it makes me wonder why I bother. But she keeps coming back, scratching at the door wanting to be let in. I can't see why. I know she would do well in a place with no other animals who could taunt her the way mine do but that action would require decision and then follow through, two things I have been lax on doing lately.

She is here now. And would make a dandy barn cat. She's a mouser too. I often see her stalking in the backyard which makes me think there is hope for her yet.

We are exceeding our maximum pet allowance now at our rental house and I am just hoping that we aren't discovered before we move in the spring. I have made a vow to take in no more strays, no matter how desperate I am for ball of fur that actually loves me. Of course it wouldn't surprise you to learn that a week ago while on a walk a furry white canine stray began to follow us. Without it's owner in sight, all I could think to do was cry.