Creature Thoughts, January-February 2024

Shortly before Christmas, a kitten was dumped on our property and took up residence in the ponies’ barn. Within a few days, he was letting me pet him, though was a bit skittish about it. He appeared to be about seven months old (our vet said my estimate was spot on), in great health, a sleek and glossy jet black. Though he allowed petting, picking him up was a no-go. Thus, “Magic” was trapped, and brought inside. We had him neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and tested for FeLV and FIV (both negative).

Magic is now a Nastasi.

He’s met Kira through cracked doors and in very controlled situations and shows no actual fear. He’s cautious, but curious about her, and I have no doubt that, when the time is right (sometime after the Christmas tree comes down), further introductions will go just fine. Kira is very happy to have a kitty again. We’ll have to help her keep her enthusiasm under control until Magic figures out how to play with a dog.

Magic is joyful, sweet, and cuddly. He loves playing with his new toys, rolling on peoples’ feet, and getting his tummy rubbed. In all her fifteen wonderful years with us, Missie never tolerated belly rubs. I was quite shocked the first time this kitten rolled over and made the request, half-expecting it to be a lure in to a sneak attack. Nope! He just likes getting his tummy scratched.

For now, Magic is in a base camp/safe room (our laundry room) where he has a bed, a cave, lots of toys, a scratch board, a litter box (he picked that up right away), and people to come in and pet and play with him all day long. Though we’re all impatient to have a lap cat to keep us company, we know that slow and safe introductions are best.

We start off 2024 with sorrow, as the loss of Missie is still sharp in our hearts, and joy with our new kitty. So many friends have said, “Missie sent him to you.”

I do believe they may be right. She has brought us the Magic that will let the healing commence.

I hope your new year is filled with its own special kinds of magic, and that good fortune and blessings surround you. May it be a better year for all of us in every way!