Scaredy Cat

Jackson’s middle name was “reluctant.” When he first came to us, he was reluctant to engage with us humans. We weren’t surprised, since he came from a semi-feral environment where there were lots of cats, probably a hoarding situation, and we think the cats were most likely allowed to pee in a bathtub, since that seemed to be his litter box of choice. (Better that than in the middle of the floor.)

He did, however, love his brother Lynkx. He and Lynkxie knew one another in other lives. So he cuddled up to Lynkx and tolerated everyone else.

Jackson and Lynkx, snuggle bunnies.

Then Lynkx passed away. He was pretty old, and he hung around long enough to give Jackson a good beginning in our family and then let go of his body.

Jackson was bereft. He had brought along a “friend” when he was adopted, but they had no connection other than friendly passing in the halls.

However, there was Ry. Much to Ry’s chagrin, Jackson decided that Ry could be a surrogate brother.

Ry is special, and he can be a bit of a diva, which is part of his charm. Being a diva didn’t necessarily include cuddling with a needy bro, though. He resisted.

Ry: “OMG, must we do this?”

When Jackson would come along for a cuddle, Ry would hiss, get up and move. Far away.

Jackson was not to be deterred. He kept at Ry, and as Jackson became more comfortable with humans, letting us pet him, and starting to wind himself through our legs, Ry melted a bit.

This takes time. Jackson didn’t let us in over night. It took several years. Our philosophy is always “Let the animal be, and see what they want.” We don’t force ourselves on a reluctant animal, we just love them where they are, and over time, they start to trust that a) they are part of a forever family and b) nobody is going to get hurt, especially not them. 

Fast forward to this past weekend. Ry was snuggled up against me, his mom, in bed. I can always tell when it’s getting a little cool in the house over night because Ry will make sure he’s comfortable. In the summer, he’s pretty much AWOL, bed wise - too warm.

Jackson appeared on the bed. He usually comes up, takes stock of the situation, and then takes off. This time, however, he laid down against my legs and put his head near his brother. He cuddled with Ry and with me. This is a miracle! I let him be. We all three reveled in the closeness, and then Ry left. Jackson hung around, and let me pet him. He was totally relaxed. It’s been a long time coming. 

It was a wonderful moment. 

Jackson: “I could get used to this.”

Be patient with your rescues. They come to you confused, not knowing which way is up or whether they are really welcome. Give them good energy, and let them know you will let them decide how far to push things. It may take years. It may take five months or five minutes. But it’s always worth it.