Anyone who says that cats are snobbish, aloof, and think their owners are their "staff", has never met a kitty like Tom Tom.
Tom Tom's story is interesting. He was here at this house when we bought it and before it was "Rosehaven Cottage". As I wrote in a
previous entry:
"Tom Tom was a wild tomcat... and he had the reputation for being the fighter in the neighborhood as well as being the father of most litters in the feral cat colony that existed for years before we came. We didn't like him at first because he was such a bully. But Tom Tom and I called a truce late one night on our front porch (initiated by him) over some cat food. My husband was able to pet him shortly thereafter, and he slowly rubbed and purred his way into our hearts. A couple of years after we moved in, Tom Tom went missing for about a week and then showed up in our driveway with badly infected leg and ear wounds that appeared to be from a large animal attack. We rushed him to the emergency vet where he tested negative for feline HIV and was immediately put on antibiotics and fluids to save his life. While in the vet's care, we asked that he be neutered. We also asked the vet his approximate age. The vet determined that based on the size of his jowls (his head is the size of a softball!) he was quite mature--probably 3 to 5 years old. Tom Tom "retired" from his street life after that and now lives inside with the other kitties."
Tom Tom does not in
any way take his new life for granted. He is always grateful for what he has. It's as if the rough existence he had for the first few years of his life is cemented firmly in his kitty memory.
Tom Tom appreciates the satin tassled pillows that he's allowed to lean on in the living room; the laps that are available to him just about every evening; the warm spot next to our feet at night on our bed; and the social network that he's a part of with the other kitties in the house. He is always very willing to show that gratitude openly.
Tom Tom also has an innate sense of propriety which we call "good kitty etiquette". He is thoughtful about when he climbs up on our lap. When he realizes we're busy doing something, he calmly walks about 2 feet away, sits with his back to the person he approached, and waits with eyes half closed until he's invited back.
Tom Tom has always recognized that he was brought in to an existing kitty colony hierarchy so he has been respectful of it and shed his territorial tendencies from outside immediately upon being allowed in the house. He's polite about sharing the food dish and water fountains with the other kitties as well.
It has often puzzled us how a feral cat could become such a loving, sweet, and well-mannered kitty. It has taught us a valuable lesson as well. He is the perfect example of what we are certain many feral cats could become if given the chance to have the love and affection they deserve. If you have a place in your heart and in your home, consider adopting an adult cat that needs a good home. We have never been sorry that we opened our home up to this sweet gentleman of a mancat, Tom Tom Mau Fang Whiskasmutz.
"Personal Assistant: You’re working on the computer? Let me press the keys. Reading the paper? I’ll hold the pages down for you. Watching TV? I’ll just plop in your lap so you can pet me. I love an orderly household, don’t you? I’ll help you with all your chores, and I’ll help you relax when we’re done. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without me."
"Leader of the Band: I’m a cat who does everything in a big way. I not only like to be in the middle of things - I like to lead the parade. I’m an adventurous cat, but I’ll still make plenty of time to show you my affectionate side. I’m the demonstrative type, you might say. Want a cat who’s brimming with confidence? That’s me."
"MVP: I’m a savvy cat who knows the score. I’m pretty unflappable, too. I don’t mind entertaining myself, but a human companion at the other end of the couch and a nice scratch behind the ears always make my day. If you’re looking for a resourceful addition to your team, think about signing this Most Valuable Pussycat."
"Love Bug: Do you seek affection? I do! If you also like petting, purrs, and paws kneading your lap, I think we might have A LOT in common. I’m looking for 'someone who enjoys quiet times and togetherness.' "
"Party Animal: I’m a cat on a mission: PARTY! I love to play and explore and test my limits. I’d love to play with you, but I can make a toy out of anything: pencils, post-it notes, potatoes. If you’re looking for some laughs and someone to liven up the party, think about inviting me."
"Private Investigator: I’m working undercover to keep an eye on you and your household. You may not even know you’re under surveillance. I can vanish into thin air if anyone or anything interferes with my investigation. If you need a cat who knows how to stay out of trouble and will always keep your secrets, I just might take your case. "
"The Executive: I have to say, I’m a busy cat. First, I’ve got to check out what’s happening out the window. Next, I’ll see if any closets or cupboards need looking into. And then there are my naps –can’t be late for those. I can fit a little socializing into my schedule. Shall we plan on breakfast and dinner? I hope you like kibbles."
"Secret Admirer: When it comes to relationships, I’m very level-headed. I don’t leap in paws first, if you know what I mean. But give me a little time, and then I’ll shower you with purrs, head-butts, and plenty of lap time. In the meantime, you may not see a lot of me – but I’ll be thinking a lot of you."
Today the temperature in the garden was a sunny 66°F (19°C)--just perfect for some spring gardening with my garden buddy, Tom Tom.
I'm sure there are many Tom Tom look-a-like's out there in the world. I found one just yesterday at It's All Good named Nicky. And Deb at My Cozy Cottage World says her kitty Shadow (all 20 lbs. of him) could pass for Tom Tom's twin.
