Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK
Cat General => General Cat Chat => Topic started by: DaveD on August 04, 2017, 18:50:09 PM
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I thought I'd better start a new thread here, since it looks like being a long story!
Bramble has been refusing to come in, apart from for food, and running off before I can close the door on her, for almost 4 weeks, but I think I'm steadily making progress. I didn't see her at all yesterday, but this morning I looked out of the bathroom window and saw her sitting on the wall.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4346/36203183052_95725d1e38_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Xa9M2f)
She's been closer than that, but today, when I came downstairs and appeared at the door, she didn't run away. That's a first!
This evening was even better. I went out with a handful of pieces of lamb, to bribe Lily into coming close enough for me to grab her (it worked!),and saw Bramble nearby, so I threw her a chunk of meat, but kept my distance. She scoffed that, and patiently waited for more. The only reason I'm not having a vegetarian meal tomorrow is that a neighbour's kid came past on a bike and scared her off. It wasn't deliberate, and the kid wasn't being horrible, so I can't really complain, and at least it wasn't me who scared Bramble!
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Aw Dave, that's real progress. My fingers are well and truly crossed. :)
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I really hope that your patience pays off soon Dave!
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I went out to fetch Lily in and, instead of disappearing from sight as usual, Bramble just moved away a couple of feet. When I got Lily and Clio safely indoors, I put some chicken in the kennel. Hopefully Bramble will get it, and not the other local cats!
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I saw quite a bit of Bramble yesterday, when the weather was nice, but it's rained most of today, and I'm sure she's found somewhere to shelter nearby. I didn't expect to see her at all today but, in a lull in the rain, she appeared!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4356/35611001944_b78720c537_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WfPGd9)
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I am glad she is still in the area and you get to see that she is OK :hug:
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:evillaugh: Oh Dave - her face is so expressive. :Luv:
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She's always looked grumpy, even as a kitten!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4385/36403576176_f2633fc76b_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XsRQV7)
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Grumpy, but very, very cute. :Luv:
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:evillaugh: You're right, Dave.
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Grumpy or not she is beautiful :Luv2:
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She's getting closer!
Every time I make a move towards the door she moves away, but not as far as before, and she moves back when I back away, so we're definitely making progress, though I still think there's a long way to go.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4418/36299270472_7f56e51fcc_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XiDfsU)
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It sounds as if she is coming round. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Sometimes the progress seems agonisingly slow to us, but its massive progress from her viewpoint. You're doing well, Dave. :)
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She's started calling out to me, as if she wants attention, but running off if I approach. She's always been conflicted about whether to tolerate me or not!
I reckon, so long as I don't make any sudden moves, she'll come in eventually.
...and when she does, she's grounded!
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oh Dave she does sound like she loves you really! I imagine as it gets colder she will be happy to stay in, mine definitely prefer it
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They are funny things aren't they? Bob is more like a nervy feral than my strays and ferals. Yet she was born in a loving home.
It does sound as if you are making progress though. The cold weather is approaching fast, I'm sure that will hasten things. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Well, its some kind of progress
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I call her my semi-feral, though she never was really. She was found when she was about 10 weeks old though, and I've read/heard that kittens should start socialising with humans by 8 weeks, so perhaps that's it. I gather her brother and sister were the same.
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I'm trying not to get too excited, but Bramble got closer still a few minutes ago. I'd already put some dry food in the kennel for her, when I saw her run past on the wall of my yard, so I put a tray of Sheba in the kennel too, then came back indoors. Bramble could see me watching, but went all the way into the kennel, and stayed quite a long time. I think she's finished the wet food, but I won't check until tomorrow, as I want to build up a bit more trust.
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Cautiously, but sounding good Dave. ;D
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Dave, that's great - softly softly........ ;D
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I spotted Bramble nearby again, so I put some wet food in the kennel, and she went straight in, as soon as she thought I wasn't looking:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4347/35694641003_9b38eaabd2_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WodnbT)
She actually went further in, so she couldn't see me and, as the back door was open and wouldn't make a noise to frighten her, I carefully and slowly crept towards her. I got right up to the kennel, and almost screwed up, because the hinges on the kennel door were on the side opposite me, but I managed to catch her!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4333/36335121442_c293808b40_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XmNZH5)
There's still a way to go before she'll let me stroke her, and she's grounded for now, but at least I know where she is!
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Well done, Dave ;D
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Great news!
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It's so satisfying when a plan works, especially when good money has changed hands
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They're all staying in tomorrow, as I'm going out in the evening, and I don't want to risk the others, especially Lily, being locked out, so Bramble can stay downstairs and get properly reacquainted, but then she'll be going upstairs to stay in my bedroom, and Lily and Clio can then go out. I'm not sure how I'd cope with 3 prisoners trying to escape!
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The reacquainting is going well. Clio actually let Bramble get closer, but I wasn't quick enough to get the photo!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4335/36507637975_5ce16aa6cf_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XC4bS4)
...and Lily would only wake up when the camera was out of reach!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4352/36339387202_81181b410d_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XnbRLE)
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Fantastic news, fingers crossed
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These two are back to normal. I hope it doesn't take Bramble too long to forgive me for taking her to the vet!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4335/36371248211_932c5d061e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Xq19Wp)
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I am very glad things are going well ;D
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Even more progress! ;D
Lily and Bramble were sitting on the sofa, with Bramble on the arm, and I decided it was time to turn in. I had to walk past them to get to the door to the stairs, and I expected Bramble to run away from me. Instead, although she flinched, she just curled up with Lily. She actually let me stroke her too!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4354/36516278105_169eaa104e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XCPtgP)
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Dave, I can't believe this - it's just amazing! An so good to see! :wow:
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Great pics and commentary :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2:
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Thanks! I was afraid I might be overdoing the photos! I probably should ease off a little, if only to avoid alarming Bramble.
No pic this time, because I was too busy fending off Lily who was trying to steal my dinner, but Bramble overcame her distrust of me to sit in front of me until I gave her some meat from my plate. Things are almost back to normal, but I'm still not ready to risk letting her out.
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I don't blame you. :hug: How long is she grounded for?
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I'm not sure. A week or two, probably. She'll be on her own a lot of the time, as I don't want to keep the other two in for no good reason. I'm never going to be certain she won't stay out again, so I'll just have to guess.
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I would have said at least a week, with lots of chikkun to remind her of how good home is. ;)
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Not just chicken. Today it was lamb. I always buy more meat than I would normally need so the cats can have some. It's mainly to bribe Lily into coming in, but I can't leave the others out!
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Perish the thought. ;) :rofl:
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I'm keeping Bramble upstairs while the other two are out, then letting her down when the door is shut so she can socialise. It seems to be working, but the time she comes down will vary, depending on when Lily comes in. The weather forecast for the next couple of days is for rain, so Lily shouldn't be out late.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36501763176_216bd7f967_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XBx5uq)
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4346/35716459084_aa7d923f2a_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Wq9bWG)
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Awww, lovely photos! :Luv2:
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Lily doesn't look that impressed at being used as a pillow. :evillaugh:
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:rofl:
She wasn't too bothered, it was me taking the photo she wasn.'t impressed with. I had to move to get the angle, and the noise woke her up.
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It's so lovely to see her back in the house again, Dave, and snuggling up with Lily, too. :Luv:
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Lily just came in (Clio was already inside), so I locked up and went upstairs to let Bramble out. She ran downstairs, yowling all the way, and started scratching at the bottom of the door to the living room, impatient for me to get down there and open it. When I eventually did, Lily was waiting on the other side, and started bouncing around like Tigger!
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Aww, couldn't wait to be a pillow again. :rofl:
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All together, more or less. They got closer than this, and Clio didn't growl as she usually does, but they wouldn't play ball when they saw the camera!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4377/36428232791_122dce3698_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Xv3dta)
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They look like they're running a protection racket in this one, with Lily in charge and Bramble providing the muscle.
It feels like a protection racket sometimes too! :rofl:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/36568793045_402f5bdaa6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XHsC8P)
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And it looks like it too! :rofl:
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I had to take Clio to the vet today (routine injection for flea allergy, plus Effipro for her and the other two). She's usually very well behaved, but this time she was crying all the way there and she wouldn't get back in the carrier at the end of the visit. She was so rattled that when I got home I got Lily in as soon as possible so I could keep Clio in. Of course, that meant Bramble could come downstairs. I expected Clio to kick up a fuss if Bramble got too close, but the opposite seems to have happened.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4434/35779535413_43ed5b2ea1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WvHtkB)
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It's great to know that they are, at least, tolerating each other.
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A lovely piccy, picking up the hints of red in Brambles fur. :Luv: And so close to Clio too. ;D :Luv2:
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Another bit of progress - Bramble just used me as a stepping stone, when she could more easily have got where she was going by avoiding me!
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That is good news Dave. :wow: :wow: :wow:
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Baby steps, but giant strides. :wow:
My OH was trying very gently to brush Malt when he was on his knee, and she shot into the air and ran and hid, glaring at him.
Every time we may fool ourselves into thinking she's getting a bit more "handleable" she shows us that's not the case. Nontheless, to be where we are after two years is still a source of great pleasure.
Hoping Bramble's continuing to enjoy her time indoors. :hug:
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I have never had the nerve to try and brush Sky. Good job she is shorthaired!
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Thankfully I don't have to brush Bramble. She takes care of herself most of the time, and if she needs more grooming Lily takes care of it!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/36716500565_b78535bd9e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XWvErc)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4386/35881799704_afcedf6d61_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WEKAX3)
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:wow: :wow: :wow: Aw, that's just lovely!!
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so cute to see cats snuggling
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They are very sweet together, good to see Clio being affectionate to her too. :Luv:
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How much longer is Bramble grounded for Dave?
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I was thinking of letting her out tomorrow, but she started acting up and hissing at me when I went near her so I think I'll give it another week. I managed to stroke her a couple of times, so she's settled down a bit, but she's still flinching. I can't keep her in forever though, as much as I'd like to!
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Bramble was a bit wary when I approached, but didn't flinch at all! She's settling down nicely now, so this Sunday will probably be the big day. I'll worry until she comes back in, of course, but it'll have to be done!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4355/36782996661_61eba7de00_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Y3otpB)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4422/36782996781_6198fc254c_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Y3otrF)
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Awwww ;D
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I hope she behaves after her grounding. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Bramble went out this morning, and then it started raining, not hard but persistent....and she stayed out, looking just as grumpy and stubborn as she did before her incarceration, and running away and hiding if I made a move towards her. I thought I'd made a big mistake, but then she came in while I wasn't looking, and stayed there long enough for me to shut the door.
Phew!
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Really glad for you, and her! :wow:
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I'll be nervous every day for a while yet, but it's a good start!
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I'm so glad that Madam came in of her own accord!
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You're bound to be nervous Dave, but so pleased she came in of her own volition. :wow:
Our little Malt has just begun to go out again at night on her own, after her misadventure in June. Can't say I'm keen, but hope that the cooler nights may help to keep her indoors soon.
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It's sunny today, so she might be a bit more reluctant to come in, but at least she came in when it rained instead of running away, which is what she was doing before, even when it was tipping down.
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:censored:
She wouldn't come in last night, and she's running off every time she sees me, so we're back to square one. At least she's nearby, and it'll be colder soon, so plan B might have a chance.
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what a shame, must be so frustrating for you, still like you say it is getting colder
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:-: :-: Oh Bramble....... :doh:
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...and she's back!
She doesn't like it though, and keeps crying to go out, so I'm sure she'll play silly beggars again. On the other hand, this time she stayed much more visible. Last time there were days when I didn't see her at all, this time I saw her several times during the day and evening.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4342/37088209645_9864a36155_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/YvmLAr)
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:wow: Am so glad Dave. You must be relieved. Has she stayed in (silly question, but I have to ask :doh:)
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She really is giving you the run-around, isn't she?! :hug:
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My brother is over for a visit, which involves going to the pub at least twice, and I generally keep the cats in all day when I'm out in the evening, if possible, so they're all stuck indoors until he goes back on Monday morning!
Last time I kept Bramble upstairs while the others went out, this time they're all together, and she seems more settled. I'll find out if I'm right on Monday!
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You'll have to foster a Felix Crispie addiction the same as my cats have, one hint of the crinkle of the packet and I am surrounded by adoring cats, unfortunately the only thing they are adoring is the treats. :rofl:
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I'll give that a try.
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Back to square one. She went out on Monday morning and, apart from sneaking back for food, won't come in. At least she's using the kennel, and she's staying closer for longer, so I know it's her eating the food in the kennel. It's rained quite heavily, but it's still not all that cold yet so, fingers crossed, there's still hope!
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Naughty Bramble, how very frustrating for you Dave. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Even Lily has started coming in early now the weather is less pleasant - Bramble must have been really annoyed by that vet visit!
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Bramble still won't come in, but something just happened that makes me think she's getting less skittish.
I was just about to put some chicken out for her when I saw her sitting on the wall. Normally, she scarpers as soon as I approach the door, but this time she stayed put. She let me get within 4 feet, then waited for me to leave and ate the chicken. (I sneaked a peek though a window!)
It doesn't sound like much, but I'll take whatever progress I can get!
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Progress is progress Dave. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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I'm hoping she comes in before the fireworks start, or at least isn't scared away by them.
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I definitely see it as progress, Dave, but also understand your desire to have her back inside.
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This must be terribly frustrating for you Dave - not to mention worrying! :( I do hope Bramble soon decides that it is so much more comfortable inside :hug:
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More progress today, I think. Clio spends a lot of time in the kennel, pinching the food I put out for Bramble, but I think her presence makes Bramble a bit calmer, and less likely to run off when she sees or hears me. (Clio's in the second picture too, but in the corner so you can hardly see her.)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4485/37854740836_1a62a650cb_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZF6rBs)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4447/37854749286_077fc40f11_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZF6u89)
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Even more progress. I've only ever seen Bramble inside the kennel when the food I leave for her is at the back. Even when it's pouring down, she finds somewhere else to shelter.
Last night, as I was putting food out for her, I saw Bramble curled up inside the kennel. As soon as she saw me she ran off, else I would have caught her, and I thought I'd made her too nervous to return to the kennel, but I left the food, hoped for the best, and went up to bed.
On the way though, I shone a torch out of an upstairs window, and there she was, back in the kennel! :)
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that's excellent, Dave - now she has found it let's hope she makes it her home, at least while she insists on stopping out
it just means she's your outdoor cat, that's all
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I think Kay's right Dave. It seems she prefers to be outside, frustrating (and understandably upsetting) though that is. Incidentally, you have made the outdoor shelter particularly inviting. :)
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:thanks: It's the upcoming fireworks that have me worried. Hopefully they won't panic her into leaving the area.
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As expected, it was like World War Three out there last night, and Bramble was nowhere to be seen. I was getting a bit worried that she'd been scared away, or worse, then a couple of hours ago she turned up. Phew!
I checked the food in the kennel was topped up, and she moved away a bit, but she came back soon after I got out of the way, and she's been sat on the bin for almost an hour.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4528/38188879371_9a96bcf491_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/21bBZmF)
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glad you have seen her, she keeps you on your toes doesn't she!
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Glad she's ok
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I had quite a fright today. I was in town, about half a mile away from home, and the other side of a very busy road, when (I'm 99% sure) I saw Bramble. As soon as she saw me, she ran straight across that busy road. Thankfully she got to the other side unscathed, though a car did pull up quite sharply.
I haven't seen her near home yet, but I'm fairly certain it's her eating the food in the kennel.
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Oh Gods, Dave. That's scary. I do hope it wasn't Bramble. :hug: :hug:
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I hope that it wasn't her and that she is closer to home. :hug: I suspect that when you finally get her again her days as an outdoor cat are numbered.
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I still haven't seen her since town. That doesn't necessarily mean anything, I've gone days without seeing her before, but I'll feel a bit calmer once I've seen her.
The food is still being eaten, and if it was being taken by other cats I would have spotted at least one of them by now, I'm sure, so I'm still hopeful.
And yes, she'll be under close arrest indefinitely the first chance I get!
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I was starting to panic, as I still hadn't seen Bramble, and I was wondering if I might just be feeding other people's cats, but I just shine a torch from an upstairs windofw, and there she was!
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That's wonderful Dave. :cheer: :cheer: :cheer: You must be so relieved. ;D :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Phew!! That's a real relief, Dave. Am hoping she'll see sense very soon, and come back indoors.
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glad to hear it, I hate seeing cats by busy roads and they aren't even mine so can imagine how you felt
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Bramble's been keeping out of sight again, for several days this time, then all of a sudden she's started coming a bit closer, probably waiting for me to put her food out!.
I had another heart in mouth moment a few days ago, when I was coming home on my scooter. I saw her sitting on the pavement at the end of my road, but when she heard me, she ran straight over the main road. It's not a particularly busy road most of the time, but when it is, the cars are often going well over the speed limit. Luckily she survived unscathed, and she was in the kennel later that night.
I'm seriously considering getting a trap, just so I can relax a bit.
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oh Dave what a worry for you
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Good luck
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:thanks:
On the plus side Lily, who had been staying out overnight more and more, possibly copying Bramble, even though the weather is getting colder, is now coming indoors with no fuss, encouraged by pouches of Purina Gourmet, which she seems to go mad for! One less cat to worry about!
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Pleased about the doppelganger :Luv: :naughty: One less to worry about. Aided by Gourmet.
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Finally got around to ordering a cat trap. All being well, it should be here by the end of the week. It's collapsible, so it'll beeasy to store in case I need it again.
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fingers crossed for you, Dave - the battle of wills between you and Bramble must be so frustrating for you
what an unusual character she is though
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The funny thing is, Bramble used to be the easiest to get to come in. All I had to do was take one step outside and she'd run straight in - now she runs away instead.
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Has she been in since the cold snap, Dave?
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She may have sneaked in to grab some food, but I haven't seen her inside, just a fleeting glimpse outside, so she's still coming to the kennel to eat.
The trap arrived today, and I've just spent half an hour figuring out how it works. It wouldn't have taken nearly so long, but Lily "helped"!
I have to go out for an hour or two shortly, and I'd rather not leave the trap unattended even for a short time, so I'll set it when I come home.
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hope you catch her Dave, such a shame she is so wary. its freezing here, can't get mine to go out!
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It's :censored: cold here too! It's dry and sunny though, so the food I use as bait won't wash away.
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Trap set and baited, and Bramble set it off inside 3 minutes.
Unfortunately, she set it off from outside the trap, as she was suspicious and tried to reach the food through the wires, so I've reset it and moved it so it backs onto a wall.
Fingers crossed!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4563/38028733194_1065f599d6_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZWtctG)
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...and she's back!
I looked out of the window and the trap seemed unsprung, but it was dark and so is Bramble. I didn't want to keep opening the door to look properly as the noise would scare her off, but then I heard her yowling, and sure enough, there she was.
She's a bit unsettled, probably annoyed at being caught, but she's eaten since she came in.
Also, Lily's a bit over excited and keeps pouncing on Bramble, so it might take a while to adjust!
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Well, it didn't take long for them to settle, though Bramble was a bit cautious at first. I'm still keeping her indoors for the foreseeable future!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4516/23883814337_b5db28037e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/CowMUn)
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it's odd how settled she seems once indoors, despite her antics outdoors
but definitely Dave 1 Bramble 0 for now anyway :evillaugh: :evillaugh:
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Well done, Dave. Good to see her back indoors. :)
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well done Dave, she doesn't look unhappy either!
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She did seem very settled - until I took her upstairs. I'm not letting her out for a while, but I don't want Lily to feel as if she's being punished, so she can go out. At the moment, Lily's coming home fairly early (she's in now), though I don't entirely trust her so, when I'm going out for the evening, I don't let her out. I'll be going out tomorrow evening, so all the cats can mingle downstairs for a bit longer.
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Still close today, but I daren't let Bramble out yet.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4573/24895064118_80bec78fe3_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/DVTHeq)
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Much as I disagree with cats being restricted without reason if they are used to being outdoor cats, I'd be keeping Bramble under house arrest until Christmas at least. :shify: :rofl:
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I want to try to give her time to forget about the trap, if possible, in case I need to use it again. :evillaugh:
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Time to get some of the faux ivy that you get to disguise the bins and such to disguise the bright metal of the trap if you need to use it again. ;)
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I was thinking more along the lines of some sort of plastic sheeting, at least at first, to keep any rain off the bait. I thought I'd need something of the sort on Thursday, as it had rained all week, but I got lucky. :)
Still calm and collected. Bramble is even letting me stroke her, but I think she's just biding her time until she sees an opportunity to escape!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4516/38758046692_1e8edb7d47_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/223V7Ym)
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Bramble has now taken to jumping onto my chair whenever I get up. That and sidling up beside me to be stroked when I'm sitting on it, including when Lily's on my lap, nudging Lily until she gives Bramble a wash! I couldn't reach my camera for that, but here's a photo of Bramble looking daggers at me because she thinks I'm about to turf her out of the chair!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4515/38256197214_1b38ef6449_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/21hz1B9)
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I think you need to choose another chair! :rofl:
Seriously, it's good that she is calm and affectionate - until you let her out again. :naughty:
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In this respect, the cold weather is your friend, Dave. :)
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Unless she manages to somehow escape (and we all know how crafty cats can be!) Bramble will be staying in until the first Sunday of the new year. It might have been sooner, but then I realised that there would almost certainly be fireworks on New Years Eve. I got off fairly lightly in November, but my (and the cats') luck can't hold!
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Oh for crying out loud, she's got an accomplice now!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4585/38982039812_e5dab3aba8_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22oH9jG)
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Clio has been keeping out of the way of the other cats since Bramble came back in, but now they're getting reacquainted.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4737/38306648604_3079367058_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/21n2A3G)
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they look pretty happy with the arrangement, funny how she is so hard to get in but loves it when she is
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they look pretty happy with the arrangement, funny how she is so hard to get in but loves it when she is
I think it's a matter of trust - she hasn't trusted me since I took her to the vet. I seem to be getting some of that trust back though. I hadn't seen her for a while, and started looking around, when I caught a glimpse of her out of the corner of my eye. She was asleep, but I think I disturbed her when I reached for my phone to take a photo. Even so, she stayed put for a while, which is progress! ;D
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4737/25294230008_52cc72731c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ExaxkW)
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Lovely pics Dave
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:thanks:
Sooner or later I'm going to have to let Bramble out, but for now I'll just sit back and enjoy seeing her settled with the other cats:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4738/39337339191_c389f21825_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22W79s4)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4679/25468761708_ae267853f3_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ENA4xb)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4644/39308023602_f19f1a8de1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22TvTWS)
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:Luv2:
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Don't blame you at all Dave, enjoy it while it lasts. :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Awww, that is so lovely to see ;D My 2 barely tolerate each other!
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She seems so settled I'd almost be tempted to let her out tomorrow, except for the inevitable fireworks.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4732/27619607319_53e2e3dea1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/J5DH1c)
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Awww! Ickle black bunny feets. :Luv:
I wouldn't let her out just yet either Dave. Maybe for even another couple of weeks if your place is as firework crazy as ours. >:(
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:Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
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At the moment, the plan is to let her out a full week after the fireworks stop, whenever that is, but I'll take account of her mood, and if she seems nervous or moody (or moodier than usual!) I'll keep her in a bit longer.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4681/24531518277_6a7cdd8d7a_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/DnLrHF)
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Yet another sleep photo.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4685/38558975895_3f6e4de4bc_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/21KjQae)
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It's lovely that your cats bundle together Dave, mine sleep close to one another, but rarely close enough to act as pillows. :Luv2: :Luv2:
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At the other end of the sofa is Clio, being aloof. She doesn't much like other cats. Very occasionally, she'll allow Bramble close, but her expression shows she's only tolerating such contact, not enjoying it!
Here's a photo from August, just after I trapped Bramble in the kennel, shortly before I let her out too early and couldn't get her in. Clio was there first, and Bramble crept up afterwards.
Lily, being young and boisterous, isn't tolerated by Clio at all!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4435/36501828392_9ee5be738c_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/XBxpSQ)
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in my experience it's unusual for girl cats to tolerate each other at all, so to have two bonded and a third happy to tolerate them from a small distance is really lucky- especially when one of them keeps coming and going :evillaugh:
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I agree kay, the girls in my life are so less tolerant than the boys have been
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All they seem to do at the moment is sleep, which can get a bit boring. On the other hand, it's easier to get them in focus.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4729/25587371228_2e3a7c5991_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/EZ4Y1U)
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Something very odd just happened. I fell asleep in the chair -no, that's not the odd thing, happens all the time these days - it's what happened while I was asleep that's odd!
I was woken by a cat, sitting on my lap and licking my hand. Again,neither of those things is unusual, though if Lily sits on my lap she just goes to sleep, and if it was Clio I'd feel her claws digging into me, as she struggles to retract them.
Bramble has never sat on my lap. She's stood on my lap, and she's sat half on my lap and half on the arm of the chair, always with a definite eye on an escape route, but never sat fully on my lap.
Until now! OK, she still had half an eye on escape, but I reckon, if I'd wanted to, I could have grabbed her, so I think she's let her guard down. She stayed a while too, but when she wandered off it was a relief - I had cramp, but didn't want to scare her away with any sudden movements. I really think this a major development.
Or she may just be lulling me into a false sense of security, waiting for me to leave a door open so she can scarper!
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Once Bramble had wandered off, and after I'd stretched the cramp away, Lily quickly took her place, but Bramble still wanted some attention. This time I managed to reach my phone, so I took a few pictures. Because I was struggling to avoid disturbing Bramble, I only had one hand free, and I couldn't see the screen, so I only got a couple of usable photos!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4751/25715111708_0eb75363eb_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/FbmENY)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4756/38689593905_8d492d18d7_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/21WShkT)
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Blimey Dave!!! You must've felt amazing. :wow: Well done, Bramble (and well done you!) ;D
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It did feel amazing, at least it did once I'd managed to prise my eyes open. I'd worked out that it was probably Bramble - her fur isn't quite as soft as Clio's or Lily's - but I couldn't quite believe it until I saw her! :rofl:
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:evillaugh: :evillaugh: It's such a lovely reward for all your patience. :Luv:
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What a wonderful wake up for you Dave, :wow: :wow: :wow:, let's just hope she builds on it before you let her out. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Unless she suddenly starts looking panicky, she'll be going out on Sunday morning. The fireworks seem to be well and truly over, so if she insists on staying out, at least I won't have to worry about that, and it'll be a while before the next lot.
Of course, she might behave herself and not stay out after all, but I don't want to set myself up for disappointment! :rofl:
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is she still showing signs of wanting to go out Dave? Am just wondering if you could perhaps keep her in until the end of the month and see how she goes? Am thinking of the progress you've won from her very recently.
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Not really, apart from wanting to see what's on the other side of a closed door, but that's just being a cat! :rofl: It applies to inside doors too.
Letting her out is going to be nerve-wracking, whenever it happens, but I've got to bite the bullet sometime. At least I know she can look after herself out there, and that she tends to come home, if only for dinner!
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:evillaugh: I know what you mean. I said to my OH, if I had my way, our cats would never get to go out until they were in their 20's and accompanied by an appropriate adult. ;) He was very good at supervising the girls when they began to explore outdoors, but I was a nervous wreck, and my heart was constantly in my mouth. :doh:
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It's only recently it's been a problem with Bramble. I don't recall being this nervous when I first got her as a kitten. Before the vet visit that sparked this little adventure, all I had to do to get her to run scurrying in was take one step outside.
Lily, on the other hand, has always been a minx for staying out, and I've had to use all sorts of trickery to get her in - that is, until I managed to trap Bramble. Now she's in and out all morning, and I have no trouble shutting the door with her inside.
Contrary little :censored:s!
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Lily's still doing her best to make Bramble feel at home.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4650/39638734061_7795d6d3df_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23oJSDk)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4608/39609023552_b63cbfb32a_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23m7AKb)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4616/38930448394_6131852df9_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22j9HZu)
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:) :)seeing that is just magical, Dave :Luv2:
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I spotted Bramble out of the corner of my eye sitting behind me on the back of my chair, so I grabbed the nearest camera. Unfortunately, the one time the phone camera would have been the best option, I could only reach the "proper" camera, so I had to take my best guess to get an over the shoulder shot. I also didn't want to scare her with the flash, so it's a bit blurred.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4705/38937501584_f14e7237d0_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22jLSEd)
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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4617/27876355479_fe0366ef82_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JtkBhB)
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After a nail-biting few hours, Bramble strolled in and settled herself down for a sleep. Clio was in her box, and I managed to coax Lily in, so I shut the door and decided that today was a success!
I'll probably leave it a little longer tomorrow, but I've had enough excitement for one day! :rofl:
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You mean Bramble has been out and come back in again of her own accord? Maybe she values Lily's attentions more than the lure of the great outdoors.
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That is fantastic news Dave, perhaps she has forgiven you the vet visit now? She looks very happy being washed. :Luv:
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Even better, she keeps coming to me to be stroked, or to sleep on the chair back behind me. It's taking ages to type this - not only am I having to use the onscreen keyboard, I'm having to use my left hand, as Bramble has put her head under my right hand, and I'm making the most of the purring!
I just hope it lasts!
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:wow: I very much hope that it does last xxxx
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That is great news Dave! I hope that this was just a 'blip' and Bramble is happy coming home again when she has been out.
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Time will tell! She's currently sleeping behind my head again. When she's there I get a bit of peace, something she's given me very little of all day. Not that I'm complaining, of course. It can be a bit tiring, but it's better than the alternative!
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...and she's still behaving herself. She went out for a little while, but came back in very soon after. I think she may have gone out a few times, but she was settled in my chair long before the rain started pouring down. Lily ran in then, so I locked up for another day.
I hardly dare believe it, but I think she's forgiven me for the vet visit!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4651/39673270712_a293d40687_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23rMTbQ)
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:narna dance: :yayyy: :dance: :star1:
It certainly looks that way. ;D
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I do hope you are right Dave! :crossed:
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She's still behaving, even when it's not raining! I'm sure she'll want to stay out longer when the weather gets warmer, but I don't expect she'll be afraid to come in. I just hope I won't need to take her to the vet again anytime soon!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4694/25891064778_453334c026_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/FrUtwA)
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:Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
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I've been a bit worried about Clio since Bramble came back. Currently she's spending most of the day in her cardboard box, and I thought one of the others had upset her. She used to spend some time with Bramble, but I hadn't seen them together, until today. It looks like Bramble's been completely accepted back into the fold!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4661/39106255384_5e21de2e15_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22zFMhu)
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That is good news and a lovely photo Dave. :Luv:
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I just had a nail-biting hour getting the cats in, but it wasn't what I expected.
Bramble and Clio were both in, just Lily out. It's a miserable day, so I thought I might as well shut the door and leave the weather to its own devices. The usual routine is to rattle the bolt on the gate to attract Lily's attention, then let her see a pouch of Gourmet food, which brings her running. (I've no idea why , but it doesn't work with any other pouches I've tried!)
So far, so good, and I put the food in the bowl. Normally, Lily has her head in the bowl before all the food has gone in, but Bramble and Clio got there first, leaving Lily sat outside looking enviously on, but unwilling to commit to coming in, so I let them finish, then tried again, but the same thing happened!
I gave up for half an hour, and succeeded on the third attempt, but when I went out to attract Lily's attention the third time, Bramble was outside. When she saw me, she looked ready to run, and she did, but she ran straight indoors, just like she used to do.
Phew!
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sounds to me as if your cats are taking it in turns to gang up to get the better of you, Dave
this time Lily agreed to play hard to get in so the other two got two pouches of Gourmet - no doubt other plans to outwit you are in the offing
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:rofl:
That's just how it felt!
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:evillaugh: Cat connivance at its best!
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:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
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I don't know what's got into Bramble. She isn't just sleeping on the back of my chair, she just spent 10 minutes or so giving the top of my head a wash. I'm going to have to wash it again before I go to bed!
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At least balding heads are easy to wash Dave. :naughty: :evillaugh: :evillaugh: :evillaugh:
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:rofl:
It wasn't the bald patch though, she drenched my hair!
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:evillaugh: :evillaugh: :evillaugh:
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That's so lovely Dave. My sister's old cat used to love to comb her paws through long hair. It could be quite therapeutic, until she really got going, when it became painful. :evillaugh:
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Things are still going great with Bramble. She's coming to me for attention more and more, even when Lily isn't already on my lap!
I'm starting to relax now, though the downside is that, because I'm determined to make the most of this friendliness, I'm getting cramp from sitting still for too long at a time. It's worth it!
This is Lily on my lap, with Bramble on the arm of the chair.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4709/39335960064_a051fe41e7_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22VZ5u1)
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Dave, the cramp is so worth it. There are times at night when I'm the recipient of snoozles and my back is screaming with nerve pain but I refuse to give in to it and let it spoil the pleasure. I so know what you mean, as will others. :)
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...and still giving me cramp, but this time in daylight so the picture's a bit clearer. She's spent most of the day, and evening, like this, apart from when I went out shopping, and the other times I got out of the chair. Oh, and I had two more hair washes!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4695/40172722651_eeac1acc83_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/24cVGRa)
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:Luv2: :Luv2: :evillaugh:
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Getting better and better Dave ;D ;D ;D
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Another huge step forward today. I was getting dinner ready, and peeling some spuds. Of course, all three cats turned up, as they always do if they think there's the slightest chance they might get some of my food!
Lily and Clio always come close, especially Lily, who I often have to elbow off the worktop, but Bramble keeps a discreet distance....until today. Today she was as much underfoot as the others!
They all got fed when I started cutting up the beef, but no doubt I'll get mugged again when I try to eat it!
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You'd be worried if it were any other way, Dave. ;D :Luv:
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Absolutely! The nuisance they make of themselves is much better than worrying about them when they're not! Although, I have wondered occasionally if I should get hold of a scanner and check that it's really Bramble. She'd been getting friendlier before her adventure, but it was very slow progress. Now, she's forever demanding attention, washing my hair for me, and trying to trip me up!
It's great! ;D
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I have wondered occasionally if I should get hold of a scanner and check that it's really Bramble.
:evillaugh: :evillaugh: Understandable Dave. You must be feeling so chuffed though. You've done an incredible job, with your patience and persistence. I doubt I could have managed it. I'd probably just have been whining and wringing my hands and feeling sorry for myself, but your plan worked brilliantly. Well done. Am so glad that you're now surrounded by eager felines when you're busy in the kitchen. :) :)
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Yet another corner turned with Bramble. She's sat on my lap before, but it's always either been bolt upright or half on my lap and half on the arm of the chair, with an escape route in view at all times!
This time, although she was only half on my lap, she had her chin resting on my hand, and she was purring away happily and dozing. In this pic, she heard my reachng for my phone but, amazingly, she only opened her eyes half way, so she's obviously quite relaxed.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4777/40816002652_bfb5c2c911_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/25bLFzE)
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Well done Dave. ;D ;D ;D
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I'm not sure how much credit I can take, other than doing my best to ignore her until she comes to me, but thanks! ;D
Although,I'm quite pleased with how I managed not to react when Bramble accidentally scratched me. I'm not sure how it happened exactly, but Lily was involved probably trying to play while Bramble wanted to sleep, but it ended with Bramble falling, trying to catch herself on the arm of the chair, and finding my hand there instead!
Fortunately, it didn't hurt straight away so I didn't make any sudden noise or movement that would scare her away.
Or maybe it's just my reactions slowing down with age! :rofl:
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...and Bramble's just spent almost half an hour sleeping on my lap, without even a hint of looking for an escape route. I now need to move around a bit to get rid of the cramp. :rofl:
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so now it's you who needs the escape route - what a turn around :wow:
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:rofl:
And I didn't get much of a stretch. As soon as I sat down again she was back, this time with Lily!
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/792/39983577045_703a795990_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23Vdhs2)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4786/39983578485_9fd3993b0e_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23VdhSR)
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aww bless
I hope you've left some room there for Clio
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:Luv: :Luv: :Luv: Bless!
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aww bless
I hope you've left some room there for Clio
No photo, as I couldn't reach a phone or camera this time, but Clio and Bramble spent a while on my lap shortly after those photos were taken. :)
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...and now Clio's joined Lily to sit on me. It's not often they spend any time together as Lily is usually much too energetic for Clio.
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I see that you are enjoying your new job as a cat bed then Dave. :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
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:rofl:
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Another half hour (so far) with Bramble on my lap, completely this time, apart from resting her head on my hand, which means I'm having to type this left-handed on an onscreen keyboard. It's so slow, and I'm seizing up with cramp again. I'm in :censored: agony, but it's worth it!
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How awful for you, Dave :rofl:
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Bramble seems to have settled down after the loss of Clio. I was worried that she'd be skittish, especially after she saw the carrier, which she really doesn't like!
For the last few weeks, the pair of them have been cosying up on the back of my chair, and I've just noticed she seems to be leaving room for Clio.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/871/40521610435_508a1f1a2b_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/24JKR2M)
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:Luv2: hard to believe she hasn't always been on the back of the chair!
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Bramble's only been doing this since her "Stubborn Adventure". She's slept there before, but has always run off when I've approached. Now she stays there when I sit down, and I get frequent neck massages!
I wasn't sure she'd continue with Clio gone, but she has.
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my Tosker always sleeps on the back of my chair - unfortunately as he has major congestion problems his noisy breathing makes it difficult for me to hear the TV - and then there are the regular bouts of intense sneezing accompanied by flying snot
so if you ever care to do a swop with Bramble .................................... :sneaky: :sneaky:
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The walls between my house and next door are a bit thin, so I use headphones when I watch television. Having said that, when I'm not watching telly, Bramble's snoring is fairly quiet, and oddly soothing, so I'll stick with Bramble thanks! :)
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Flying snot is never a good plan Dave, I'd stick with Bramble too. :naughty:
Sorry Kay. :evillaugh: :evillaugh: :evillaugh: Try a shower cap whilst watching telly. :rofl:
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I had a worrying start to the week. On Monday, Bramble wouldn't come in, and ran off whenever she saw me. I thought I was back at square one, and that I'd have to get the trap out again, but then around 8 in the evening she appeared at the door, waiting patiently to be let in!
It's a bit tricky with two cats that are in the habit of staying out. Lily was in, so I shut an inside door to keep her in, leaving the outside door open so Bramble wouldn't feel shut out.
The rest of the week, both of them have come in at a reasonable time, so I've (mostly) stopped worrying!
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Typical cat, everything on her own terms. :naughty: I am pleased that you didn't have to go through all that again Dave. :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
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....AND she's off again. I didn't see her at all yesterday after she went out in the morning, and I was starting to panic. I was about to post on a local Facebook lost pets page, when she came in for some food. She ran off when I moved towards the door, so I don't think I'll be able to relax for a while.
Nothing's happened to scare her off, as far as I can tell, I think she's just enjoying the warm weather, so I'll be hoping for rain soon!
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Oh Dave. :doh: :doh: Nooooo! :(
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Yep! She's still coming in to eat, but she won't let me shut her in. In fact, she's in now, eating, but if I move an inch, she'll bolt.
There's rain forecast in the next few days, so I'll see what happens then, and leave the kennel door open at night. If she doesn't come in, and stay in, soon, I'll get the trap out again, but I don't want to overuse that option in case she gets wise to it.
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Oh Dave! What pickle she is :(
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Any joy with Bramble, Dave?
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Unfortunately not. I've got to go out for a few hours today, but I'll be setting the trap when I come home, with some really smelly food that I know she likes!
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What is going on with Bramble Dave? It's ages since you posted about her. :hug:
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She's still staying out sadly, but coming in for food. The trap didn't work, I think it must have upset her the first time, and she's wary of it now.
I though I might have better luck during the heavy rain, but no. In fact, Lily has started staying out late and, during some thunderstorms, stayed out until 4 in the morning! I think it's too warm to make them want to be indoors.
Roll on winter!
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Dave, I am sorry that your girlies are being 'dirty stop outs' :(
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Well, at least Lily comes in (eventually!)
And Bramble is staying close to home a lot more often than last time.
I've covered the trap with some cheap pet mats/blankets, and left it closed. Bramble walks past it to get to her food so, in time, I might be able to set it and catch her.
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:crossed: Norty Bramble, Lily not being far behind. :shocked:
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I stayed up until after 7 this morning trying to get Lily in. Luckily I'd already done all my shopping for the weekend so I had time to catch up on sleep!
On a brighter note, Bramble is staying closer for longer, though she still runs off if I get too close.
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Dave, did you manage to get Lily in eventually?
It is good news that Bramble is staying closer - but it would be even better if she came home!
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Yes, Lily came in, and wasn't allowed out again until this morning!
I don't think either of them will be in a hurry to come in until it gets a lot cooler.
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I think Bramble is beyond stubborn now. Pig headed may be nearer the truth. You must be the only person in Britain, apart from Andrew who suffers in the warmer weather, that is praying for Winter. :doh:
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Rain would be nice too! :rofl:
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Save me watering my pots. :naughty:
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Both of the little :censored: are just sitting there taunting me. If I step outside, they scarper!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/40909338690_46fa12a3c0_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/25k248G)
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Little so and so's. :rofl: I think you need a new gate Dave. :naughty:
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I'll have to ask the landlord about a new gate. I'll just keep patching it up for now.
In the meantime, it looks like the cats are embarrassed by the state of the gate, and have taken to sleeping in next door's back yard!
At least Bramble is still staying close to home.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1787/28306625147_0297406de7_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/K8mRta)
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:innocent: :innocent: What are they like? Must admit, we're seeing very little of our 3 in this fabulous weather, although Malt at least has been happily playing in the garden - she loves watching all the activity from the birds, bees, frogs and flies :evillaugh:
Your gate looks a lot like ours, Dave. :rofl:
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The pair of them in next door's yard again today. It wasn't as hot today as it has been, but warm and dry, so they needed some shade.
After I got Lily in, the heavens opened up. That still wasn't enough to bring Bramble in, but she has, at long last started using the kennel. Previously she'd only used it as a feeding station, but she's in there now, sheltering from the rain. No photo, unfortunately, if I open the door she runs off!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1784/42463262795_0a38f610d4_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/27GkjCB)
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at least you know where they are, they are such pretty girls :Luv2:
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Dey iz nawtey kittiez. :rofl: Spechullie dat Bramble. Eye Mus learn mowr, Pippin. :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
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:rofl:
Lily spent two nights out last weekend, but she's more trusting than Bramble, so easier to trick! On the third evening when she thought she'd be staying out, she kept sneaking in for food, then running off when she heard me approach, so I tied some string to the door handle and waited round the corner, and when she went for the food I pulled the string. It'll be a while before I can use that one again on Lily, and it won't work at all on Bramble - she's far too cautious!
The second day with rain, and Bramble's making good use of the kennel. I'm not ging near her if I can help it, unless it's to put out food. Hopefully she'll relax enough eventually that I can catch her.
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THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL CATS, WHICH ONE IS WHICH
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Liy is the silver tabby, Bramble, the dark one.
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Well done, Dave. I know what you mean though - tricks like that, you can only use the once and then you're done for. :innocent:
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Both of them stayed out last night, but they were both nearby. Bramble even got close enough that I could have grabbed her, if there hadn't been a bin in the way, and she only moved away because Lily leapt on her!
It's very overcast today, so hopefully it'll rain and I can at least get Lily in!
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Well Lily's in today, and Bramble's close by. Getting Lily in was like living in the pages of the Beano! I put some of her favourite food inside the back door, then left the door ajar with some string tied to the handle, and trailed the string around the corner and waited. As soon as I heard the bowl move I pulled the string and caught her!
It's only thin string though, so if I want to try this trick with Bramble I'm going to have to find something stronger. She'll probably hurl herself at the door if she sees it closing!
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LILY IS BEAUTIFUL
I WOULD LEY BRAMBLE DO HER OWN THING TBH
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I will for now, though she doesn't really give me much choice! :rofl:
Bramble can look after herself pretty well, but I'll be looking more seriously at getting her in when November approaches, and probably keeping her in until the new year, that whole period now being firework season.
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it's a shame, Dave - for a while it looked as if Bramble was going to be happy joining Lily on the sofa, (or your head :evillaugh:) but now it looks as if Lily has decided instead to join Bramble on her outdoor adventures
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Bless you Dave :rofl:
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I'm hoping it's the weather that makes them want to stay out, it'll make it easier to get them in when it turns colder. There certainly seem to be a lot more missing cat posts on the local lost pet Facebook page than usual.
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I will for now, though she doesn't really give me much choice! :rofl:
Bramble can look after herself pretty well, but I'll be looking more seriously at getting her in when November approaches, and probably keeping her in until the new year, that whole period now being firework season.
YES SHE WILL NEED TO BE IN BY THEN
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Yes, there are a lot of missing cat posters round our way too. Makes my heart lurch for each and every one of them. Ours have been spending a lot of time outdoors, but as it rained heavily overnight, all three were in when we got up - Moray was one very soggy moggy. :evillaugh:
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Little so and so's. :rofl: I think you need a new gate Dave. :naughty:
Just had a word with the landlord and I'm getting a new gate in the next 2 or 3 weeks! :yayyy:
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TBH, our gate was replaced a couple of years ago, the original was a good thick one that had lasted for more than my 24 years tenure at that point. The new one is so thin it is wrecked already, looks far worse than yours.
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I'm not sure how long the new one will last. All the others in the street have been chewed away at the bottom by dogs and clawed away at the top by cats! :rofl:
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Bramble ran off when she heard me come home on my mobility scooter today, then ran off again when I put some food out for her, but not too far!
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/835/42814044474_1351866a72_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28ekaNA)
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Lovely pic Dave. ;D
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It would have been a better photo if I'd remembered to cut back that mint that the camera insisted on focussing on!
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Bramble heard me put some food down, and she's waiting on the other side of the gate until the coast is clear!
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/940/28703907857_9a700471f2_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/KJt2M4)
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she sure is a champion lurker, Dave - I'd be tempted to put down some really smelly fish an inch from her nose, just to test her patience, and then do some lurking myself
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What a pickle! I bet you wish this warm weather would break.
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The sooner it goes cold the better!
Even then, I'm not sure Bramble will come in to stay voluntarily. She does sneak in for food though so the trick with string that I use on Lily should work on her, if the trap doesn't work.
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Well, Bramble's in. The string on the door trick worked! I actually thought it was Lily at first, and that was who I was trying to trap!
Not sure how I'm going to get Lily in. Bramble needs to go upstairs so I can open the door again, but she's not cooperating!
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...and Lily's in! Same trick, I found out that the string would move past the closed inside door, so I could trap Lily without Bramble escaping.
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Hurrah! I am so glad you have finally managed to get these little madams in again ;D I suspect they are going to be under 'house arrest' for some time!
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Bramble certainly is! As long as Lily keeps falling for the string on the door trick, she can go out.
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so it's Dave 2 Cats 0
but is it only half-time? :shify:
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I think of it more as a game of chess - of a kind that might be played at somewhere like Hogwarts!
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I like your style, Dave. Quidditch with cats. :evillaugh:
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Bramble was not at all happy about being trapped indoors last night, yowling loudly and hissing at Lily if she got too near.
She's settled down a bit now though.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/848/43616490432_bfb48b9cc3_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29seV2J)
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Well done, Dave. :wow:
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More like tri-dimensional chess from Star Trek, too many moves across too many boards. :shify:
Still both cats in and under temp house arrest is great, you'll get washed again soon I am sure Dave.
Dave 2: Cats 0 for definite. :wow:
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Bramble seems to be settling down nicely, though she spends a lot of time on top of my printer, possibly an act of revenge!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1832/43704344282_f365801bc7_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29A1bVh)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1817/43752670891_ae7e78779e_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/29EgSJF)
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:evillaugh: Undoubtedly, Dave. ;)
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Not a bad life, house arrest, is it?
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It's been a while, mainly because I'm knackered!
For logistical reasons, Bramble has been staying in my bedroom at night, so Lily can go out for a few hours in the morning. My uncle lives with me, and he's an early riser, so Lily can have a good run, and be in early enough that Bramble can come downstairs for a fairly long time.
The trouble is, she's been very vocal since I got her in, especially at night when I'm trying to sleep!
She's getting quieter now, and more friendly too. She's been sitting next to me on the arm of my chair for quite long spells. It's a bit of a nuisance actually, as I use my mouse on that chair arm, but I'll happily trade a small inconvenience for a happy cat!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1845/29398976107_6644a53093_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/LMTrmp)
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Has she started washing your head again yet Dave? :)
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No, just my hand, when she wants to be stroked. (Next stage is biting my hand!)
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but I'll happily trade a small inconvenience for a happy cat!
Spoken like a true cat Daddy. :Luv: Glad you've been able to get her in. Am hoping she may stop in more for you now, Dave. I've noticed a change in the behaviour of the gurlies this last week - subtle shifts in when they come and go, and generally they're spending a bit more time indoors.
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Yes, Lily's coming in, and staying in, quite early now. I'm wondering whether to start letting Bramble out soon, or after November 5th, which seems a long way off. If I leave it too late, I might have trouble getting her back in when the fireworks start.
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That's a difficult decision Dave, I'm not sure what I would do under similar circumstances :(
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Dave if she is happy being in I would keep her in just now, some of mine are happy housecats despite being big brave ferals before I trapped them amnd now won't contemplate putting a paw over the door in any season
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Bramble keeps looking longingly through the windows, so I think she'd be off, given the chance! She doesn't seem distressed though, so I'll keep her in for now.
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Since Bramble came back this time, Lily seems to have been avoiding her, until today, when they spent about an hour on top of the freezer sunning themselves.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1888/30665209068_02f92bd2dd_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/NHMdib)
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What an elegant Lily paw. :Luv:
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That is a lovely photo :Luv2:
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So...
This :censored: cat, who would hardly come near me for years, for the last few days has hardly left me alone!
She sits on the arm of my chair, leaning against me, and if I move, even slightly, she reaches out one or both of her front paws and digs her claws into my leg!
No blood drawn, but it's quite painful.....and I couldn't be more happy with the progress she's made! :happy dance:
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;D ;D ;D :evillaugh: Dave, I'm absolutely delighted. Really, I am. And I fully understand hwo you can bear pain of that nature - much more preferable than the emotional pain when she keeps away. :hug: :hug:
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I finally got a photo of her gripping my knee with both paws, with an expression that seems to say "don't you dare move!"
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1890/44023292104_603ea17132_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2a5bSZE)
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that is a great photo!!
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;D
Love it
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Great photo! Yes, she is clearly saying 'Just you try it'! :briggin:
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She's so settled now that I would probably take a chance and let her out, except that firework season is getting closer. Round here fireworks can start almost as soon as they go on sale, so any day now. Bonfire night is a Monday this year, so I'll wait until the following Sunday and, if there's been no fireworks on the Saturday, I'll let her out then.
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Good idea, Dave.
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Good idea, Dave.
Seconded!
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Thank you both! I was wondering if I was doing the right thing, or if I was overreacting.
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Nope, not at all. :hug:
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Definitely not over-reacting. You've sweated blood and tears to get to this point, Dave. I don't blame you at all for not wanting to jeopardise it.
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Thanks!
And she's still making progress. Yesterday evening, she was on the arm of my chair, as usual, leaning on my arm, when she leaned so far that she ended up on my lap. She's done that before, but always waking up and re-positioning herself. This time she stayed put, at least until cramp made me flinch and I woke her up!
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Progress indeed! ;D
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Lap cat Bramble here we come! :wow:
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:evillaugh: :evillaugh:
That's so good to hear.
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Lately, Lily has been a bit standoffish with Bramble, but I just got home from shopping to find this. ;D
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1964/31159306788_88bdfe084e_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PtrAko)
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Sweet! :Luv:
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Lovely to see, me thinks they are playing with your mind :)
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Who can fathom what goes on in the minds of cats. :evillaugh: I certainly can't.
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I had a late night last night. Every time I tried to get up to go to bed, Bramble either gripped my hand with her claws or clamped down on it with her teeth. She didn't draw blood, just waited for me to sit back, then put her head down to be stroked!
I had to wait for her to go for a drink so I could stand up!
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you've got a right madam there, Dave - good job you clearly love her to bits :wow:
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Most men complain of having a thumbprint in the middle of their forehead - you have a pawprint. :rofl:
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...and loving every minute!
She's hardly left my side today. Even when I went into other rooms, she did her best to follow me. When she couldn't (when I managed to put a door between us), she nicked my chair!
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She is clearly determined to make the most of being inside, seeing as you are so keen on it! :briggin:
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Of course it might be an exercise in s7btle manipulation Dave: "Oh - think you wanna go anywhere? Anywhere I dunt want you to go?"
;) Strike a chord?! Cats are Masters at the game. :evillaugh:
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Even more progress this evening. Bramble was curled up on my lap, fast asleep, with not even a single paw on the arm of the chair to make a quick escape if necessary. She was SO fast asleep that, after about 15 minutes, she started to roll over and slide towards the floor. My knee, of course, provided an ideal anchor point for her claws!
Every time I think she's got as close to me as she's ever going to get, she surprises me again!
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That has made me grin so much. :evillaugh: It's what I love about cats, is their capacity to continually surprise us. If only we could truly speak "cat" as fluently as our Mother tongues.
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That has made me grin so much. :evillaugh: It's what I love about cats, is their capacity to continually surprise us. If only we could truly speak "cat" as fluently as our Mother tongues.
Indeed!
I was in bed, engrossed in my comp, earlier today when something suddenly attacked my feet. I think it is the first time Sky has played 'bedmeece' - certainly since she was ill last year, possibly ever :briggin:
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I lurve toe mouskies. Bob does it every night. :Luv: I am so pleased that Sky is well enough to indulge. Very pleased that Bramble has finally accepted you as 'her hooman' Dave. :hug: :hug: :hug: It took long enuff. :)
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The only trouble is, when it's time to let her out again it'll be a wrench! :rofl:
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I know, who's going to wash your bald patch? :naughty: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
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How's Bramble doing, Dave?
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She's doing great, she hardly leaves me alone! I wonder if it will last when she goes out!
I've decided to wait until this coming Sunday, to give the yobs time to use up the last of their fireworks, then it's nail biting time!
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:doh: :doh: :crossed:
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If she doesn't show signs of wanting to go out, why let her out?
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When I manage to tear myself away, she often sits by a window or door, until I go and sit down again!
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A good point Lyn. She may be happy to view the world from the inside for now, Dave.
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Sorry, I thought I'd already replied to this, my mind is crumbling with age!
Although when I'm in the room with Bramble she's all over me, when I've been away from her and I walk in, I've often seen her at a door or window looking as if she wanted to go out. Once, she had her head and one front leg out of a window that was, thankfully, not open wide enough for the rest of her to get out, though if she'd persevered I'm sure she would have pushed it open!
So she'll be going out tomorrow morning with Lily. If all goes well, they'll both be back in before the morning's out.
I am, of course, nervous, but if I leave it too long the weather will get milder, and she might not see the need to come in, just like before. I'm hoping she'll get used to the idea of going out AND coming in!
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There's another reason not to wait that I forgot to mention - if Bramble won't come back in, I have time to trap her before the next huge spate of fireworks, around Christmas and New Year.
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It hasn't stopped here yet, mad tonight despite pouring rain and thunder. :censored:
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It hasn't stopped here yet, mad tonight despite pouring rain and thunder. :censored:
Pretty much the same here but without the thunder! [/size][/b]
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There were a few fireworks last night, but they weren't particularly loud. I seriously reconsidered Bramble's great exodus, but in the end she went out - for about four hours, then she and Lily came in, admittedly for food, but voluntarily all the same.
So far so good!
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Glad she came back in again, Dave, and you;re not having to camp out yet. :shify:
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I'm so glad that Bramble cme back of her own accord!
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Really good news Dave, you must have been on tenterhooks for those four hours. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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It was nerve-wracking! It'll take a while before I can completely relax, but it's a great start.
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They both came in even earlier today, after about 2 hours. I know it's the weather that's making them come in early, but Bramble wouldn't come in out of driving rain earlier in the year, so I think she's learned that it's safe indoors. I just hope I don't have to take her to the vet any time soon, as I'm sure that's what set her off before!
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Everything crossed that she stays healthy Dave. :crossed:
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I'm sitting here in agony with a cat on each knee. I don't want to move because I don't want to risk unsettling Bramble. I hope she gets hungry or thirsty soon! :rofl:
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I won't ask why you are in agony, not a cat slave at all, are you Dave? :naughty:
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Who, me? :naughty:
Thankfully they've both moved now, so I can have a stretch and a walk around!
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Definitely CCM :naughty: :rofl: Nowt wrong with tha. :hug: :hug: :hug:
Glad you could stretch the cramps out.
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:evillaugh: :evillaugh: It's a trait all true Cat Appreciators will recognise. :rofl: So glad she came in nice and early Dave.
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It's a nice sunny day here, so more of a test. Lily stayed out later, coming in about 20 minutes ago, but Bramble, though she's been in and out all morning, has chosen to sun herself mostly indoors by the window.
She's been to me for a fuss from time to time, mut only for a minute or two at a time, so no cramp. That'll probably come later when there's no sunshine to be had!
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At least she is coming back to you and not just for food. ;D
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...aaaand pretty much back to square one!
I've just got her in, using the string on the door handle trick, but she's refused to come in all day, even when it was raining.
On the plus side, once I'd locked up and sat down, she came to me for a fuss.
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...and they both came in after two hours this morning. It's a rollercoaster with these two! :rofl:
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they like to keep you on your toes!
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:doh: :doh:
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I hope this post doesn't jinx things but, apart from two occasions when I had to bait and trap her, Bramble has really settled down, and comes in voluntarily in the morning after, at most, 4 hours out.
She's also getting more affectionate. Right now she's sitting on my lap with her head on my chest and her front legs stretched out in front of her. A year ago I would never have believed she could be so trusting. I'd made some progress with her up to the point she started refusing to come in, but this transformation is astonishing!
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Long may it continue. :Luv: :crossed: :crossed: for you and Bramble. A wonderful story, let's just hope she doesn't need a vet visit any time soon :hug: :shify:.
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If she does I'll just have to keep her in for several months afterwards! :rofl:
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What Paula said. Am so pleased, Dave. ;D. I love that cats can constantly surprise us. When that's in a good way it's even better. :)
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It's getting even better, though causing more aches and pains! For the last couple of days, I haven't been able to sit down without Bramble jumping up and going to sleep on my lap, or across my chest. Even when I'm leaning forward, for example to eat my dinner, she tries to push me back with her paw, so she can get comfortable!
Last night, reaching for the TV remote, I hadn't noticed her sitting up for a stretch and a yawn, and I accidentally clobbered her with my hand. I didn't hit her hard but, not very long ago, assuming she'd even get so close in the first place, it would have been enough to send her running to the other side of the room in a panic.
I keep thinking I should get her scanned, to make sure it's really Bramble!
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Your patience has really been worth it ;D
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I'm loving it, despite the discomfort, which is just as well as I'm now being pinned down by two cats! It's a shame both my camera and my phone are out of reach.
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It sounds as if she has finally decided that you are HER human. :Luv:
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I finally got a couple of photos, though I was using my phone so they're not very good. I'm also not a contortionist so, although Lily is in the pictures, you can't see much of her!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4881/31120817317_feeeb39cb1_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Pq3jKP)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4885/44243626650_798fdb4e46_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2apE9M9)
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;D ;D :Luv: :Luv:
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:evillaugh: :evillaugh: What fab photos. :)
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All still good I take it Dave? :)
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Absolutely! I still can't get rid of her, every time I sit down she jumps up onto my lap, and if I don't sit back right away she shouts at me, puts her front paws on my shoulder and tries to pull me back!
When I type it out like that, I'm surprised that I put up with it, but after 12 years of Bramble mostly avoiding me, I'm happy to be making up for lost time!
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We all put up with it, cos we love them so much, and you have lots of time to make up for ;D
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Some times those ladies make us that bit longer for their favours x
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"I detected movement. I do hope you weren't expecting to leave!"
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4829/45550827074_b46472aea5_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2cpaTVu)
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:rofl:
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made me smile :rofl:
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Look at that face!! Priceless. :evillaugh:
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She's getting very bossy - she just pulled my glasses off and flung them to the floor because I wasn't paying her enough attention! :rofl:
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I'd missed that photo, says it all really, :rofl: and as for pulling your glasses off, who is firmly under the paw? :naughty: