Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK
Cat General => General Cat Chat => Topic started by: JackSpratt on May 04, 2012, 11:19:06 AM
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Anyone that pops on to the A Team thread will know that for some reason in the last half a year or so there seems to be cats with no homes appearing in our garden. :-:
We've taken in two as permanent residents, but already had three when we did so. You have to know your limits.... ;)
This is the most recent boy. He's called The General, and we're working towards gaining his trust and getting him neutered. Then of course, he'll need a home....
He's called The General because he sits on the wall and shouts orders. He's in no way brave around people (his first nickname was Cowardly Lion Cat) but knows he can get food here. ;)
Without further ado, The General:
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He's lovely JS :Luv2: hope things go well so you can get his peas podded and a lovely new home found for him.
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He certainly has a military swagger aqnd looks lovely ;D
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I think given time he'll be OK with people. I have a friend who's trying to get together the deposit for his own house. He's currently in accommodation that won't allow cats, but I've already shown him a picture of The General and he was very complimentary so I've told him he needs to hurry up and buy so The General can move in with him. ;)
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What a handsome boy, hope he can find a home soon :hug: Have you got him on the rescue waiting lists in the meantime?
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Long story, but I'm not in the local CP's good books and they're literally not answering any of my emails or phone messages I leave. The only other rescue locally is the RSPCA, and I'd rather find him somewhere myself than put him on their lists.
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OOoh he's rather lovely! :Luv2:
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:Luv:
He's just my type.
The General is a good name for him too.
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He's a dude. All swagger until he sees, well anyone! Funny thing.
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This chap must be getting braver because I could hear a cat "shouting" yesterday morning and looked out the window to see him loitering near the back door. :evillaugh: He ran before I opened it, but stayed close enough to eat when I put the food out.
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Wish me luck....am approaching the old chap a couple of doors up to see if he'd consider taking on The General. The General has been sent some awesome presents by a lady who is put in mind of one of her cats. ;)
He's been sent about 8kg of Whiskas dry and this:
http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_beds_baskets/cat_house/278229 (http://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/cats/cat_beds_baskets/cat_house/278229)
So whoever agrees to care for him will get this too. I've also lined up funds to neuter when he's tamed a bit, and am paying for the chipping myself to register him to the new carers.
A couple more pictures attached.
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Sending loads of good wishes JS and am sure the General will make someone a lovely pet when he is ready and that gift is great :hug: :hug:
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Thanks Gill. :)
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good luck general :wow:
hes lovely, I love ginger cats..i allways think they look like my brother though :Crazy: :rofl:
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Update on this fella. The elderly guy, although lovely, is not aware enough of The Generals comings and goings unfortunately and recently this became obvious by a couple of things (he couldn't tell the difference between Darwin and The General, and The General turned up with a big cut; probably a scratch from a fight near his eye, and the lovely old man didn't even notice) with this in mind I started seeing if I could find someone a little more suited to caring for him.
I have a young lady on my friends list who my Mum used to child mind as a little girl who's now training to be a nurse. She was looking for a cat, and saw The General on my FB page - she immediately took a liking to him but didn't think I'd ever move him from his territory. Neither did I until we got into discussions; not only is she nightly readying up on feline psych to learn the best approach with a stray, she's also agreed to pimp out her shed and attach a run to it for him while he adjusts.
We're £45 short of the target for the run, because the run we first looked at and got a price for didn't have a safety door so we felt it might be a bit risky.
I've attached a picture of the garden that will be The Generals new home once she's kept him confined in his pimped up pad for a month or so while he recovers from the op. I'm not really looking forward to telling the old chap that's helped but hopefully he'll understand this is a brilliant opportunity for The General to be in a less built up area and potentially get in less fights.
EDIT: The paved area is where the run will go with the amended price. She's also agreed to put a hole in the side of her shed for a cat flap!
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Wow, TG will def have landed on his 4 paws if you can pull this off for him JS ;D
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My goodness thats wonderful, well done ;D ;D
Your friend may find it easier putting the cat flap in the door than the side but only a thought :innocent:
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It may be easier, Gill - but the run will be on the side so the cat flap would go outside. ;) The new price includes a panel that will be fitted just inside the shed so that the lady has space to get into the shed and shut the safety door behind her. :)
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The request for help would be the remainder needed for the new plan. I have tried to get it OK'd but noone has responded at present, and due to this boy appearing with limping legs and a cut on his face (no doubt from brawling as stated) I feel it's rather urgent to get things moving as soon as possible. :scared:
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I'll chip in, JS, how do we get the cash to you?
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I'll chip in, JS, how do we get the cash to you?
Me too.
IS it via paypal?
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Sorry guys! Via paypal - I'll inbox. :)
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Hopefully you can trap him sounds like sooner the better, also in July most vet practices are having an amnesty on injections and doing ID chips for less than£10.00 so that if you can get hom this month it would work out a lot cheaper and there would be money left over for other things
Also the house gotten previously for him will be great for him in his outside run
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Definitely Liz. The trap's here, and we now need £10 to have enough for the amended set up; as soon as that's built the trap will be used to catch The General.
Thankfully the cut on his face looks a little better the last time I saw him.
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Done.
Best of luck. :hug: :hug:
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Same here :) xx
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Get some liquid Synulox from the vet and put it on his food, the cut may look better but the infection is still there sadly and if he is full of infection most vets won't inject, ID chip or castrate as they will have open infected wounds, the Synulox will take care of that in a jiffy, I use it on the outside ferals when required if we have a new unneutered boy show up can upset the outside balance till they are chipped, chopped and injected and lets just hope he is FIV negative to
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Thanks guys. The amended target (plus the Paypal fees they kept taking) have now been covered which is ace. As soon as the money processes I'll send the payment to the man making the run and things can move forward in the knowledge he can go straight to his new home when he's recovering.
Liz, can't do that unfortunately. The food is left on a shelter because he's very nervous and other cats go to it. He doesn't eat wet food at present, only dry because we know we can leave it there for him and it won't be especially interesting to flies.
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I've sent over a little something for him by paypal :hug: A bit late now but for future info, if people select 'personal' payment (not the default option) and the funds come from the paypal account or your bank account then there are no fees to pay at either end.
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Thanks Helen. That will go towards any other treatment that may be needed as well as the neuter and chip. He's a funny lad; shouted at me this morning, which resulted in me bodding next door but one to the garden his shelter is in wearing PJ bottoms, an Alice Cooper tshirt and some big winter boots! I'm sure I have an awesome rep these days round here.....
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Really good news, JS. Hope The General will soon be trapped, patched up, chipped, checked and settling in to his new life. :hug: :hug:
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OK. So the funds are passed on to the nice lady who is offering this amazing home to The General. The run SHOULD be with her today and her and her partner are setting about building it so I can attempt to catch him Tuesday or Wednesday.
I'm going to point out, this lady shuffled her shifts around so she could concentrate on getting the run put up this weekend. I'm so pleased she cares so much! She's also very nervous because although she's had cats before, she's never had a cat like The General. I think she's underestimating herself and have told her as such. The fact she's prepared to just sit in a shed for an hour or so each night reading just to make him feel comfortable round her is wonderful! :)
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JS, she sounds a lot like you. :hug:
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Sheila..... :shy:
This is the photo put on The Generals FB page. :)
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He'll hate it for a few moments :doh: then he'll be the skwishyest most adorabul puss, who you just know is under that gruff old exterior. ;D
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I'm the first to admit I'm terrified about trapping him. But I'll give it a go.....the plan is to try Tuesday or Wednesday, but we've got to hope he co-operates and poles up at a time that's practical!
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The run invoice. We're a little concerned because as you can see the amount of roof panels has been amended and we've only been sent one.... :tired:
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I can't make that bill add up either, even if he had supplied two roof panels, the bill should come to £178?
Are there supposed to be two roof panels? I'm trying to picture it in my head.. :shify:
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Yes I make it £178 with 2 roof panels :-:
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We know he did it at reduced costs anyway, but still....the good news is The Generals new family managed to put together another roof panel themselves. ;)
Here are some pictures....I'm so excited, I just hope I can catch the stinker! :evillaugh:
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Oh JS - that's great! What a lucky General. ;D Ready to go "Rabbit catching...?" :evillaugh: :hug:
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Wonderful, hope The General will adapt quickly to the good life so he can soon be brought indoors :)
I might mention, if I may be a bit picky, sorry, the gravel bit that goes under the frame looks like it could be tunnelled? If so I'd be inclined to stick a piece of flagstone in that bit or TG might be off for the hills on his heels before teatime.
I must say this looks excellent quality and value for money, Sly wants to know if he can move in, please? :clap:
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Sheila, all input is greatfully received. ;) We wouldn't want him doing a runner before he's realised how ace it is to be mollycoddled. :) Sorry, Sly - this one's got a reserve on it. ;)
Sue, I'll have to very soon now, eh? :evillaugh:
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Sheila...this is a close up....
EDIT: I'm going to advise filling it in totally because I think he may try and end up hurting himself.
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Been and checked...this is all sound. :)
A few photos taken today....
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OK - send "come round today and go in the trap" vibes tomorrow morning please as everything is set and ready for The General to go to the vets and have his op before going to his new home..... :scared:
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This is a message for The General - "Covert ops begin today, over. One hundred percent co-operation required for mission to succeed, over. All home comforts await the Victor, over. Repeat - 100 % co-operation requested. Over and out." ;) :evillaugh:
Good luck JS - got everything crossed. ;D
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Everything crossed here too that The General co-operates.
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Standing by with "Welcome Aboard, General" pipes and whistles.
Capt Spratt, you have the com. :drama: :crossed: :wish:
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Trap set, our lot on (reluctant) lock down.
Thanks guys, am freaking out.... :scared:
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:shify: very nerve wracking wait - not surprised you're anxious, JS :hug: Oh I do hope he co-operates....... :doh:
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Keeping everything crossed!!!
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No sign....not really surprising, it's raining. :( Not sure how much point there is to trying in this weather! :tired: I foresee a lot of money being spent on tinned fish....terrific. :tired:
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*sighs* Cat trap was triggered - by Ginger Bully Cat. Gah.
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Sprocket was in the trap this time.... :tired: So trapping unsuccessful for today....getting too late now for the vets...try again tomorrow!
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Finger crossed for tomorrow. :hug:
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Best bet is trapping at night ground your lot and have a word with neighbours and ask them to keep their cats in if possible, and hopefully he should go in the trap
I set my traps about midnight and then check when I am up at 5am also makes it a lot easier not to disturb the trap and get to the vet
Just so folks know I am speaking from 20 years plus trapping experience and after we moved and had the great escape I trapped 31 of my own in a 6 month period when they went with Tiger after he broke a window the day after we moved!!!!
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Thanks Pav.
Liz, I know you're experienced in a rural area, but I'll be honest - most of the people round here wouldn't keep their cats in even if I asked. Also, even if I trapped him at 5 in the morning, I have nowhere to put him so that's not plausible. I've asked a friend to borrow her big dog crate because that's the only solution I could come up with. I'll happily get up throughout the night and check a trap, but if there's nowhere to put him it wouldn't really work.....
Our cats were kept in until about 2 to give me a chance and then I opened the cat flap. Off to bed, will be setting the trap fairly early tomorrow to try again.
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I spent the first 5 years trapping in built up areas and it was easier than the rural lark believe me, I can drive 10 miles a night checking traps in this area
I keep the cat in the trap to transport it to the vet and it also means that the food ius easily removed as the vets can't operate as quickly if they have eaten very recently - hence why we starve our own cats overnight
I use a fishy cat food in a ramekin dish and bait the trap with chopped up cold meat, currently Tesco chicken is working here
Looking at the photo's his outside house you got for him will be a great place for him to sit in and watch the world go by from his run and provide shelter at the same time ;D
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:crossed:
Best of luck JS :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Good luck from me too, JS :luck:
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I have everything crossed JS :hug:
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Thanks guys. Will be checking in about ten....
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No luck today and it is literally bucketing it down now, so I doubt we'll see him.....
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Can't help thinking he's probably hiding in that nice warm shed two doors down... :rofl:
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Humph.... >:( :evillaugh:
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A good trail in to the trap is Kentucky fried chicken batter removed it has had great success on a feral colony currently being trapped in aberdeen
Hope you have better luck tomorrow
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Can't help thinking he's probably hiding in that nice warm shed two doors down... :rofl:
Proberrly..... :innocent: :evillaugh:
Anyway - good luck JS - hoping today will be The Day. ;D
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Any news JS?
BTW, I may have to stop reading stuff on your FB page just before bedtime :( :( I couldn't sleep last night after reading about Lorcan and the other kitties who have had similar experiences :( :( :(
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After seeing (well, more accurately hearing) The General at about 11 last night when I'd just been to put some biscuits in an unset trap I figured there was little chance of seeing him today. (I was right, he's not shown himself at all....)
The rescue are already asking for their trap back, which isn't great. :tired: I'll get there....
Liz, thanks for the tip. I'd actually already learned of the sneaky KFC trick after watching a rather enthusiastic American lady. She advises to tie a drumstick in the trap so the cat can't "grab and run" so there's a frozen Southern Fried Chicken drumstick in my freezer waiting to be put into action.
EDIT: Allison, yup, Lorcan had it tough....but look at his life now. :) (I was so enamored with the little lad when I first read about him I started up email contact with the rescue and was asked if I'd be interested in offering him a home. I wanted to but after discussing it with someone less emotive than me realised that Darwin may be a little too gung-ho to share a home with a blind cat. He's very happy with Maureen, who WAS his foster but I think is now permanent, and Leo his litter mate.)
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JS, sorry to hear you didn't have any luck with The General yesterday. Here's hoping for today.
Lorcan's story is heartwarming. The thing was I used the link you gave me to look at his FB page then noticed a post on there called Gods little people. It's a blog by someone who rescues kitties in Greece. I read her blog and looked at the piccies and that was why I couldn't sleep :( :(
I was trying to read it all on my phone and in the end gave up because it was so small but sent the link to my PC. I sat and read loads of it last night and although there are so lovely stories on there of kitties being rescued there are also some really heartbreaking stories :'( :'( :'(
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:hug: Some of the groups are very hard to deal with, definitely.
Update on The General: He wandered in to the unset trap for food at around 2 in the afternoon. (Neither dusk nor dawn, yup, he's that contrary - theoretically cats are crepuscular. ;) ) So will be setting the trap Monday and hoping he shows himself then.
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:evillaugh: Ah well - cats will be cats! :hug:
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Photos:
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More:
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Good luck for this week JS. Hoping The General will co-operate. :hug: :hug:
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Sending out 'Get yer bum in that trap' vibes to the General :briggin:
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Catchy monkey vibes coming from this direction too JS :)
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Thanks guys! Been up since 5, and as usual he's not shown himself..... ;)
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Guess who turned up at two in the afternoon for some food and is now at the vets waiting for his op?
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YES!!!!!!! :wow: :wow: :wow: Wooohoooohooooo!! Well done JS. :hug: :)
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Excellent news!! ;D ;D
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wonderful news, the start of a great new life!
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Every good wish and "safe op" vibes for The General.
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Definitely. Am going to call in ten and make sure he's calmed down a little. Am also going with his new people to see how he reacts to his new digs tomorrow.
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Woo! Great news ;D
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The General is calmer, and will have to stay overnight because I couldn't guarantee if he'd eaten. At least he's calmer!
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Yay! :yayyy:
Well done The General - your new life awaits!
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Most recent photo of The Generals Quarters anticipating his homecoming. His shelter went while he's awaiting his op so he can have something he knows on his arrival.
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Looking good, are they using compost/soil in his litter tray would help him settle in not sure if you have some soil where he has laid in the sunshine it will smell of him
Also stones on top of the soil in the plant pots or they will become a litter tray as they are soil and I know my outside cats love my soil planters :naughty:
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I did mention soil in his litter tray but it's entirely up to his new human what she puts in his tray. I'll mention it again just so I've hopefully got it across that it's what he's used to.
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Way to go JS :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
Hope he has an OK night at vets whilst waiting to chill in his new pad. He's gonna be such a happy lad in a few days time :)
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Its just to settle him in and make life easier thats why I suggested it as he has gone from free roaming to a confined space and that can be very traumatic and also his surgery a lot of change for the better but he may not see it that way
Just curious is he being tested for FIV and will he be allowed out from his run further down the line as if he is FIV positive then I take the run will be his happy homestead
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JS, the run looks fab. Will keep everything crossed for him today. It's going to be a big reality adjustment for him once he's home from the vet, and sending him lots of soothing vibes to pave the way. :)
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Such good news about The General ;D ;D ;D
Well done JS :hug: :hug:
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The General has had the op but won't be ready until about 4.
Breakdown - his back leg appears to be an old road injury (may require metacam when he's older) and doesn't flex properly, hence the sticking it out when he sits down. It has a little muscle wastage but nothing too bad. He has two cracked teeth, but mostly they're fine and his heart, eyes and ears are all fine. He is approximately 7/8.
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Aw bless him. What a life - he's got a tale or three to tell by the sounds of it. Am glad to hear nothing too troblesome though apart from the points already mentioned.
Seven/eight is a good time to think about settling down in a nice little batchelor pad with some home comforts, regular meals and a slave to look after his every whim. :)
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Couple of pics....
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:) :) Hope The General enjoys himself this morning exploring his new home.
I like the fact Bon came to check him out. (not sure how The General would view it from his new found neutral position, but would be nice to think in time he can enjoy cat company without feeling territorial or threatened.)
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Thanks for the pics JS :)
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...would be nice to think in time he can enjoy cat company without feeling territorial or threatened.
Definitely. General very much seemed to like sitting with one of our cats at a time, so hopefully he'll manage to form a friendship again. His new mum asked if she should "get him a friend" in the run but I felt that might be asking for trouble a bit....How do we know he'd like the cat in question? So that was a no. I said given time he'd form his own friendships with local cats more than likely. He's that kind of cat. :Luv:
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I love the 'peeping through the cat flap' angle pic :) What a lovely, and very lucky boy :Luv:
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Oh well done JS! ;D Sorry I've been a bit distracted, but this is the best possible result. So pleased for everyone concerned. :hug:
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Any news following The General's first day/night in his new quarters?
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He has apparently taken up residence on his shelter for the entire of today and refused to move off it, reducing his new mum to a quivering wreck. :tired: Hopefully, he'll go and eat something soon so she can stop panicking.
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He'll eat - when he's hungry enough. ;)
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sending good vibes for The General this morning, and for his new Mum too. This will be a big change to his life, and it's going to take him time to acclimatise - he's used to coming and giong as he pleases, and to fending for himself. Patience and time are what will be needed in abundance here I think.
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He's probably doing the man thing and sulking :evillaugh:
I'm sure he'll settle into his new life soon.
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He's probably doing the man thing and sulking :evillaugh:
:heeee heeee: True.
The moment he realises he doesn't have to compete for food/shelter/females/cuddles he'll relax and start taking an interest in his visitors.
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He's eaten. ;) His mum is most definitely patient - but she's also a worrier, like myself. She worries about The General, then she worries she's bothering me and the other lady giving her moral support too much by messaging us as regularly as she does. She's a sweetheart, bless her!
He's doing OK. A bit of hissing, but other than that no outbursts...and he even meowed this morning apparently!
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He sounds like he's well on the way to being a big soppy kitty!!!!
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Oh JS - the poor woman - does she not realise we all want to know how The General is doing...? :evillaugh: Am pleased he's eaten. :)
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Funny thing, my 3 strays started to be nice when their bodies got used to good food at regular intervals.
I think spitty is a natural state they get into when they're hungry and this takes a few days to shake off. Once he's started associating your friend with his dinner she'll have cracked it.
I also found that food containing lower cereal/grains achieves better behaviour (I like James Wellbeloved Turkey and Rice from Zooplus) whereas Go-Cat or Whiskas Complete or similar high cereal brands make all my cats naughty/hyper, especially Sam who becomes aggressive, and have been banned from the house as contraband.
TG's sunny side will shine through soon, I'm sure.
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He's giving her conniptions...keeps supergluing himself to the shelter (I assume because it's familiar) and not moving for hours at a time. But he does eat during the night.... :evillaugh:
Still using the tray as he did straight away.
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Aw bless him. It's a bit disconcerting - having loving care forced on to you :shify: but how cool that he's using the tray.
And eating at night... ;) :evillaugh:
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Is he still stuck to the roof of his shelter, JS? :)
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New experience for him today....you see the size of the lawns? The gardener guy came round to mow them (apparently it had been put off last time and the lady felt she couldn't leave it any longer.....) and poor General apparently did his "monkey impression" around the run. So his new mum went and talked to him, which resulted in him taking up residence in....yup, you've guessed it, the balcony part of his shelter and scowling at everyone.
New mum has promised him the wing of her chicken that's to be cooked up for tea to apologise. ;)
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JS
I've got this same shelter (we call it Sly's mansion) and the only way we were able to get the cats to go inside the box bit was to clip the middle bit of the plastic door flap up with a clothes peg. It might give him an extra bit of privacy for mowing moments in the future if New Mum tries the same thing?
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Good idea Sheila - especially cos he won't be used to flaps I imagine.
Poor General. There's an awful lot has changed in his world. I hope he will begin to settle. :hug: :hug:
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I took the door off entirely on ours. None of my lot like doors on litter trays either so I knew there was no point even trying!
I did mention it but new mum is worried about getting his super duper deluxe reflective bed wet that's inside! Bless her, she wants him to have a snug...but I'll be honest, I don't think he's ever even been inside it! I think he just likes the balcony because it's where he was fed here. To be honest, he could've bolted into the shed but chose the balcony bit. He's a stubborn fella. ;)
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:innocent: Well, he can't stay on the roof forever. And at least he's eating and using his tray. Time is the catalyst here it seems.
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My lot all prefer the balcony too. I've put a layer of vet bed on the wooden surface which keeps them warm and stays dry. Sam sleeps there all night regardless of the weather, as he's sheltered from the rain and has 360 degree view. I imagine TG has the same thoughts. :shify:
Only Sly ventures inside the box - but he's a bit braver than most and likes to ambush passers by with a swipe :naughty:
This is our secret weapon in the war against mistrust... (http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4951625511075905&id=fc744fa7e6a014c7f17db6cd92af26c3)
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I am sure he will settle in time, its an almighty change for him.
I found that Lupin was terrified of a very noisy skimmer and lawn mower over the last two day and he rushed for the house pulling me along.
So pleased he has a caring owner and she will need to have the patience of a saint ;D
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Sheila, ours have a blanket on the balcony too....and they get your "secret weapon" for tea twice a week without fail. ;)
Sue, time is definitely the catalyst....seems Generals new mum was allowed to sit next to him on his balcony today. He even let her touch his back foot which, lets face it, a lot of cats would take exception to. ;)
Gill, She really does. She's brilliant with him, pops and takes him food and talks to him....She did sit with him for quite substantial blocks of time but realised he was finding it a bit full on, so she took it down a notch. ;)
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JS, wow! It sounds like the General's new meowmy is just fantastic. He couldn't have ended up in a better situation.
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Newest picture....
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bless him I'm not sure he is too happy about having his snooze in the sun disturbed judging by the look on his face!
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Lovely boy ;D
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Lovely pic JS :Luv: It's so good to see him in a safe environment where he's going to be well cared for :) :)
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Loving his new pic, such a handsome lad :Luv2:
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And another....
EDIT: Whoops...that's fish. :shy:
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And another...
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I assume from these lovely close-ups TG is allowing his new meowmi toget up close and personal? :) How long before his first tickle I wonder? :shify:
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He looks a visible amount more relaxed in those photos. Bless him, he's a darling, isn't he? :)
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Great pics JS :Luv: :Luv:
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He has let his mum touch his ear and his back foot. Just once on both occasions; when she tried a second time he hissed on both scores. ;) But yes, he's letting her sit in the run with him and this is his posture. He blinks at her like a man demented which is reassuring. (He did with me until I trapped him and took him to the vets. He initially was not happy to see me when I popped up to see how he was settling the other day, but he calmed down.)
I feel his body language towards her is massively positive. :)
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JS, could you ask her to try combing his head?
It was this tip from my cat rescue friend Anna that got me and Chubby on friendlier terms, as he utterly adores the feeling of being groomed, and the length of the comb offers a bit of protection from swipey claws. I started with a human comb with a longish handle to get him used to the feeling of being touched.
I wore a gardening glove for the first few times so I could (with nerves of steel) totally ignore any meaningful swipes and just carry on gently combing and coaxing, and before long he stopped swiping and started responding to the comb. After a few sessions over a few days I felt confident to remove the glove whilst combing, then progressed to fingers rubbing his head and face (that snoogly bit above his nose is his real weak spot :Luv:. :) )
He's still wary, but a fistful of dreamies at the appropriate moment helps take his mind off being feral, so now when the dreamies packet comes out he wobbles over for his treat which he now expects to include a lovely grooming session :sneaky::naughty:
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Great progress, and good idea from Sheila too.
We bought Ross a little pack of grooming tools - a rough comb (apparently mimics a Mother's tongue) a small metal comb and a flea comb. We had great fun with him with it, but of course in the main, he stole them from us and secreted them about the house - as toys there were perfick - as grooming and socialising tools they were virtually useless! :rofl:
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Apparently, he had a "hissy" day yesterday....
Thanks Sheila, will pass that on. :) And Sue, that's how my lot are with combs too....clearly, they're for them to try and steal off me. :evillaugh:
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What news of The General, JS? Hoping he's starting to relax a bit more.
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Oops! Apologies - The Generals new family actually went on hols for a week. Apparently, they got back to a somewhat rounder, healthier looking General; who was sulking with them and refuses to blink at them at the moment. ;)
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Well he obviously knows how to punish his slaves which is good cos he obviously has a hidden love for them ;D ;D
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I'm sure they will be back in his good books again soon :) :)
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Hoping he doesn't keep up the strong silent treatment too long. :evillaugh:
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He's still a bit grumpy. Seems the poor lad's a bit under the weather, but he seems to be improving. His new mum popped and got him some synulox to put in his food.
This is the most recent photo.
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He looks young and spry, JS, I'm convinced he will make a fist of this and eventually turn into the lovable funny pusscat we all hope is in there somewhere. Is she any closer to combing/touching him? :Luv2:
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Not yet. I think her week away set them back a little. (The poor girl felt awful and said she didn't want to go, she wanted to stay with him. But there's an eight year old daughter to consider.... ;))
I think he'll get there. It'll just take time.
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What news on The General JS? Is he beginning to relax a bit more?
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Just coming on to update. General didn't seem to relax any, and it was felt he may have a bit of an infection - unfortunately, pilling him proved difficult until his secret sponsor sent some pill pockets.
He's actually been let out. It was felt that it may be that being confined wasn't really helping matters in terms of his mental wellbeing and with him having been there about a month and a half now his new mum figured she had to try and see how things went. I support her wholeheartedly and hope that he remembers his food base so they can build up a mutual trust on his terms.
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I totally support her too. He'll know where his food is, and will come back to it now as his "old" haunts will have stopped putting food out for him by now. :shify:
Hopefully he won't associate new mum with imprisonment, but friendly supplies of chickun and fud. ;D
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I think you and new mum have done the right thing. He obviously doesnt like being confined and if hes able to wander knowing he has a nice home and food waiting may be the trick.
Fingers crossed
:hug: :hug: :hug:
love
Tab
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I LOVE this Project. :Luv:
TG should be a University Diploma. So much to learn. Sending wholesome spirits to all involved. :hug: :Luv:
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I agree too and hope he will be a lot happier free ;D ;D
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Still no sign of him and poor new mum is feeling stressed. I'm feeling a bit bad because I was the one encouraging her to give General his freedom. To me, it sounded as though he was getting a little depressed from her updates and I honestly and firmly still think it was down to the lack of control on his part; which would be rough when you've looked after yourself so long.
His old haunts are 7 miles away from where he is now. I'm hoping he's got his bearings and what my instinct is telling me is right; that he's still close by to his new home but out of sight and figuring out how to deal with the new "human food dispenser." We'd got a sort of routine so I'm trying to encourage his new mum to use that.
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I am sure he is around and your instincts are right JS but he is probably testing to see if he is really free.
What ever routines have been set up should be followed as you say.
I think if he doesnt turn up or be swen in 24 htrs then a watch needs to be keot on his ald haunt, it will take him a while to get back 7 miles.
Such a worry and do hope he will be OK and return home :hug: :hug:
I felt in his pictures he looked very down
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Feeding my guys then popping out into the garden so I can say I checked for new mum. ;)
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When I let Chubby (neutered feral) out for the first time I never expected to see him again....but he came back 12 hours later, hungry and obliging. :cat rub:
She's started out with a tough guy, I hope she's not put off by this, we're all rooting for her. :hug: :hug:
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She's not put off, she's terrified. She loves General a lot and she's used to cats that cuddle. It's a tough learning curve, a cat that you have to win over. People always think they're aloof animals and they've had to before - until they meet a former stray or feral, that is. ;)
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Reading this, I can't help thinking that she did the right thing. :hug:
He did look unhappy bless him, and as you say - he's fended for himself for so long it must have been distressing for him not to be able to exercise his usual freedoms. As he hadn't settled to any degree, letting him out is, I feel, a kindness.
And at least there's one freedom he won't be exercising. ;) I do hope thugh for his new Mum's sake that he puts in an appearance and lets her know he's okay. I love having a cuddly cat - it's great, but I spent 20 years with one who wasn't fond of cuddles, and I know how easy it is to love the un-cuddly sort too, so sending her hugs, and hoping The General wanders past soon for some fud. :hug: :hug:
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Fingers crossed he's just testing the boundaries and will soon remember where there is a plentiful supply of food. Now that he's had the snip, he should have less desire to wander and more desire to settle down.
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We can hope. Still no sign, and poor new mum is worrying. She's at uni studying to be a nurse so she could really do with him behaving so she can concentrate, poor girl.
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Still very early days and hope he remembers the food and that he has a home :hug: :hug:
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Still no sign - can people send those famous Purrs vibes that his new mum at least sees him so she can stop worrying that he's trying to return to his original territory?
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Vibes coming your way. :hug: :hug:
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And from us too. :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Adding some more come home vibes :hug:
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"DEFINITE visitor to the shed last night. All food bowls drained and licked clean. Paw indentation marks in the litter tray but no poo or wee in it. However, the food on the hide was not touched. If the visitor was General, I suggest moving the hide back into the pen, as he's obviously homing in to the shed."
From new mum. :) I said to leave things as they are.....REALLY hope it was him.
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Sounds promising. Fingers crossed it was him!
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Hoping it was TG. :innocent:
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So hope it was him :hug: :hug:
I am confused about what the hide is?
I think the days of a pen and being shut in are gone and if it is him he will be very wary of going to the pen in daylight incase some shuts him in again, it may take him a long time to build up his confidence again.
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It's his shelter, Gill. The one he was fed on when he was here.
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Ahhhhhhh right, thanks JS
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She's seen him!! He's in the shed eating now. ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Reckon that's cracked it then, well done all. ;D ;D
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Photo evidence. I'm trying to get Donna (his mum) to join Purrs. ;)
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That's clearly the Essex lion, JS. :innocent: :rofl:
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Blimey, that critter covers some ground.... :evillaugh:
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Definately essex lion!! Im so glad he's around. If you want/need to persuade Donna Im sure we can help persuade/nag her :naughty:
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Hello everybody :new here: , Im Donna, Generals new `mum`. Still a bit teary eyed after seeing him return earlier. but hes home, my little man is home ;D
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Good to see you on here, Donna - as you can see, General has a following on more places than FB. ;) :hug:
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ahhhhh glad he is home 8)
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:welcome: to Purrs Donna and so pleased he is home ;D ;D
We follow him with interest and so like the Essex lion :wow:
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Hello Donna - great to see you here on Purrs, and great to know The General has come home. :wow: :hug: :hug:
It's been lovely to follow his progress, and to know someone was willing to take him on and give him a second chance, so even better to be able to say Hi to you "in person" as it were. ;D He really is a big lad - Essex Lion indeed. :evillaugh:
He looks so much more at ease there, patrolling his boundaries. He's probably been out sussing the best spots etc and getting to know his new territory. Got a silly grin on my face now. ;D
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This is great! First there's a new home for TG, then we've positively identified the Essex Lion and now we've caught ourselves a new Donna! Fabulous result for Purrs United :clap: :clap: :clap:
:welcome: :welcome: :welcome: Donna, now the trick is to gradually tempt him closer to the house with food and promises of untold valerian toys and potted catnip plants :sneaky: :sneaky: :sneaky:
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This is great! First there's a new home for TG, then we've positively identified the Essex Lion and now we've caught ourselves a new Donna! Fabulous result for Purrs United :clap: :clap: :clap:
:welcome: :welcome: :welcome: Donna, now the trick is to gradually tempt him closer to the house with food and promises of untold valerian toys and potted catnip plants :sneaky: :sneaky: :sneaky:
:evillaugh: :evillaugh:
We're relentless Donna - gotta get used to us. ;) :hug:
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Guess who already provided a catnip seedling..... :sneaky: :evillaugh:
Donna's used to crazy. She knows me..... ;) Yup, General is one lucky guy because Donna loved him from the moment she saw his first picture.
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Donna may not have had chance so I'll upload the most recent capture. ;) Can you see him?
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Through the picket gate? 8)
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If you mean here, then yes.... :evillaugh:
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:rofl:
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:) :) Glad you said - I wouldn't have got that. :evillaugh:
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I cheated and enlarged the photo :sneaky:
So pleased he's sticking around.
How is he with cooked chickun? My lot come running for it cos I've trained 'em to respond to the subtle sound of the fridge door opening. :rofl:
Actually we have a mini Opening Ceremony every single time - OH goes :Crazy: when he's just grabbing a cold one, he turns around to eight little expectant furry faces, like this...
:-: :-: :-: :-: :-: :-: :-: :-:
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I spotted him without help ;D
It looks a nice place he has
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He doesn't come running yet, Sheila. He didn't even do that here....we had a "routine." I saw him out the window, went round the front to next door but ones garden, shook the biscuits, shouted "General" and placed them in a bowl then left the garden making sure the gate clicked loudly enough for him to know I'd left the garden. He'd usually wait about five to ten minutes then come for his food.
He is partial to chicken though, I'm told.
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General has now started to set a routine. Between 5 and 7 most evenings, Donna is seeing him....his food is put in the shed just before his usual visit and he goes in and eats happily.
I'm sure Donna will post on here more when her coursework is less intensive, but I know she's feeling a lot happier about the situation at present.
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This is excellent progress :wow:
As the nights draw in and the temperature drop his dinner can be placed closer to the house, eventually he'll be eating on the back step then it's full on Chickun Warfare to get him over the threshold, and INTO THE HOUSE. ;)
This is going to be a very rewarding rescue, I cam feel it coming ;D
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He obviously knows where his home is ;D
As the nights draw in and the temperature drop his dinner can be placed closer to the house, eventually he'll be eating on the back step then it's full on Chickun Warfare to get him over the threshold, and INTO THE HOUSE. ;)
;D In the middle of winter I'm sure wandering far from home will be less appealing
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This is going to be a very rewarding rescue, I cam feel it coming ;D
It already has been. For me, definitely. This boy looked so bedraggled when he started coming for food.
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I am so pleased he has a routine now but it has to be remembered he probably has been looking after himself outside for at least one winter and its a big step for a boy like him to take, over the threshold.
Sasa who had been living with me for 6 years, in and out of the flap, suddeenly decided that she was staying out last winter and I didnt manage to catch her in the house till mid Jan this year. Luckily no snow but very very cold.
I hope that he becomes more trusting and starts to really understand that loving kindness from his new human is worth a bit of a sacrifice from him.
Come on TG you can do it ;D ;D
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Hello everyone... sorry i havnt been on here AT ALL since i signed up..... been so busy with uni work and exams that i just havnt had time to come on here, i seem to spend every waking minute writing essays...... *sigh*
So.... General.... Well, as JS has kindly kept you updated, General is doing fine :)
Since his release, he seems to return to base daily at around 4-7pm. As of yet, he wont `appear` when i call him. He waits until at least ten minutes after i have gone in the house before he appears. I havnt seen him much this week due to being out a lot, but i leave ample food out for him and my neighbour ( a highly observant - or should i say `nosey` old man) keeps telling me that he has seen General pottering about on my garden.
I have a lot of time off this next few weeks, so i will be able to spend more time with General, now hes settled and used to his new routine. I think he needed me to be busy this week to allow him time by himself to acclimatise. I hope he starts to appear when i call him.... but at least for now, he seems happy as he appears settled and comes daily for food. Plus.... he is loved and part of a family, even though he doesnt know it yet :)
Will keep you updated, Donna x
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Thanks for the update and very important that you see him everyday and that he starts to associate you with his food ;D
Its the key to most cats heart, food ;D ;D
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That's very promising Donna. :wow:
Sorry work and exams have been so trying right now, but is good you have some time due shortly when you can relax and catch up with your General.
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Donna failed to mention Captain Pugwash, another cat we believe to be a stray she's now feeding too. :evillaugh:
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Oh Indeedy? Cap'n Pugwash? And who, pray, is Cap'n Pugwash? :shify: And why don't we noes abowt him? :-:
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Here you go. Donna sent me this on FB a short time ago. ;) This be Cap'n Pugwash....
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now she only needs a Wing Commander to cover all defensive options ;)
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Newest General photo. :Luv:
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Donna, you must be feeling so chuffed! ;D You've won this Officer-class cat's heart, and now another is looking interested. :wow: :hug: :hug: What a Mummy you are. :)
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This lad is still getting spoiled rotten. :) Donnas little girl did a lovely artistic dish consisting of white fish, ham and dreamies for him today.....
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My goodness definately spoilt rotten ;D ;D
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New photos. The first is General on his hide (IN the run, so he clearly trusts his new mum not to shut him in...) and the second is after a meal when he's off out on the prowl. :Luv:
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Looks like he's defending his shed against intruders ;D
Definitely a happy camper :Luv2:
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The General is looking rather relaxed and well groomed isn't he? :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2:
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He's a dapper lad, isn't he?
Sheila, the little black cat is a visitor they get who lives with people up the road that tend to leave her out a lot. :( The grey and white is Captain Pugwash. ;) The General allows both of them in the shed; Donna hasn't seen any evidence that he's upset with them being in his space at all. :Luv:
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He looks really good, will he have heating during the winter?
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Gosh he's like a different cat. :wow: It's great that he's not phased by the others - and to allow them inside his shed -well, who'd have thought it?! ;D
The great thing about his new life with Donna is the way she's allowed him to retain the essence of who he is as a cat, and he's rewarded that with his trust in return. What a fabulous story. :)
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I agree. When The General started visiting me, what was key to me was him being accepted and given the chance to trust if he felt able. Donna felt a connection to him immediately when I started putting up photos on FB and the fact she loves him unconditionally shines through on the most recent photo of him. He looks content, assured and happy - he looks like him, in effect. It actually made me cry seeing that photo. It's no more than he deserves. :Luv:
Gill, he has heat reflective beds, yes. And it's likely Donna will be purchasing some Snugglesafe pads too. ;)
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Captain (Pugwash) photo just put up....
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He's a looker! :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: Reminds me of the chap Sheila found and managed to rehome ......... my one brain cell can't remember his name offhand :-[
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I think my brain cell is keeping yours company. ;) I'm having trouble remembering stuff too... :evillaugh:
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I love Capt Pugwash ;D
I thought I was the only one with one brain cell and now find that Carol, Rosella and you all have one too.........thought I was unique :innocent:
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With my one brain cell too we could be the Four Mousekateers ;D :evillaugh:
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JS, thanks for the great pics of The General and his mates :) :)
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With my one brain cell too we could be the Four Mousekateers ;D :evillaugh:
Ohhhh! That sounds fun. :evillaugh:
No problem, Allison. :) I know Donna would update herself but she's bogged down with uni assignments. (Bloomin' uni assignments getting in the way of her cat obsession. ;) )
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And another. This is a stray boy that WAS being fed by someone else further down the road (I know this because they're an acquaintance of mine) but it seems he's got wise to the set up too. Poor Donna is plowing through food with this lot. :)
Introducing Codeye. (I'll just point out, Donna had nothing to do with the name...nor did I. The aforementioned acquaintance named him.)
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Codeye! :rofl: :rofl:
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Codeye. Sounds kinda pirate-ish. ;)
Poor Donna - it's all to do with the great celestial Cat Agency in the sky - once they see a sucker for punishment a kind hearted cat lady, then they drift on by. I mean, did you ever see Field of Dreams? "If you build it, they will come...."
Notice they said "they will come" - not "he will come" - they. Plural. :evillaugh:
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They will indeed.... :evillaugh:
most recent picture of General. Seems he doesn't bolt now but waits patiently on the shelter in his run part while Donna loads up the food bowls in the shed. Who'd have thunk he'd manage to be that calm around someone? Clearly, he finally gets that someone cares. :)
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Lovely picture and he looks well ;D ;D
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Hmmm Im confused but did you convince Donna to adopt the general and now she has Puggie and Codie as well as the Gen??
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And another on patrol....
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Puggie and Codeye are two strays that have started visiting Donna for food after she took on General. ;)
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What great news that the General is being more trusting ;D Love the pic of Codeye peeping out of the catflap :)
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Well what can I say cats tend to know who to target lol
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Wow, what a story! ;D The General looks great. Donna's providing a brilliant service for his needy friends, too :)
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JS, The General is looking really good :) :) What a fabulous job Donna (and you) have done :hug: :hug:
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My bit's pretty much done now. ;) But Donna is doing amazingly at being mum to a cat that is far from easy to interact with. He's a total sweetheart though and I honestly believe one day he'll be calm enough to sit and sun himself in the garden with her. ;)
(Maybe even one day, go in the house! :innocent: )
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But he wouldn't be where he is now if it wasn't for you :hug: :hug:
It would be so wonderful if one day he trusted Donna enough to actually go into the house. It sounds like she's got the time and patience so who knows what the future holds. :) :)
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To be fair, Donna makes time. She's mum to an eight year old daughter and was training to qualify as a nurse when she took General on. She's now qualified and working full time; but he still gets his special food set out for him. ;)
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So she truly is an angel then :) :)
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Mostly, yes. :) She's a lovely lass with a good heart and I'm so pleased she felt a connection to General when I started putting the photos up of him on my news feed. I'll always be glad she messaged me to broach the subject. :)
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Donna rocks. ;) ;D :hug:
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He's a looker! :Luv: :Luv: :Luv: Reminds me of the chap Sheila found and managed to rehome ......... my one brain cell can't remember his name offhand :-[
George!
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Donna rocks. ;) ;D :hug:
Agreed. :)
Sheila, did you find it hard letting go? I know I did what was best for General, but I do miss seeing him about.
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Donna rocks. ;) ;D :hug:
Agreed. :)
Sheila, did you find it hard letting go? I know I did what was best for General, but I do miss seeing him about.
Only because I'm full to bursting did I not adopt George as part of the Club.
He was so sweet and loving, would have made a perfect tabby addition to my monochrome brood, but because he was so easy-going and affectionate, he deserved a home where he could be a little more coddled than life here would afford him.
Talk about too many dicks on the dancefloor? :rofl:
I am rather pleased with myself for a successful rescue/re-home (even tho Julie officially found him first!) so no, no misgivings at all, he's in a much better situation now than I could ever offer him, purely due to sheer numbers, but the fact I had a hand in making his stay in the village a permanent one makes me very happy. :)
And yes, Donna does indeed ROCK :briggin:
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Don't get me wrong, VERY pleased he's safe and loved. But still; he's a very cheeky little lad and it was nice seeing him sunning himself in the gardens. Not ours, because Chi for some reason didn't like him. We can only assume a set to occurred when they were both entire and strays in the same area.
General lives in a much more rural location now, so I'd think he's a bit happier. ;)
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Most recent General photo....
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He looks to be in fine fettle :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2:
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He looks great :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2:
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Wow a real macho cat, in full stride patrolling his patch and looks so well ;D ;D
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So pleased to see The General looking relaxed and confident. He's in very good condition. ;D
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He's looking great :Luv:
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So, Generals shed had basically become a cat cafe with Donna at one point sighting SIX cats all loitering waiting for their ham and chicken. Clearly, noone can maintain the cost of feeding six cats on ham and chicken daily, not to mention General being rather vocal about having to share on occasion so a plan had to be made. The plan involved fitting a Sureflap in the shed.....unfortunately, we didn't factor in how stubborn cats can be about new things. I advised Donna to move his shelter nearer the house and currently that's where he's going for his food. He still refuses to use the shed as a safe place to sleep as far as Donna can tell, but he's rather portly these days and looks very loved.
There's a video on his FB page. :)
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;D ;D ;D ;D
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:evillaugh: "If you build it, they will come. . . . ." :rofl: Poor Donna. How lovely to have an update though. :)
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Thanks for the update JS. :)
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Love the pic of the General ;D Poor lad having to share his food with uninvited guests :shify:
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He looks really well. If I knew how to get the video on here, I'd post it. ;)
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Most recent picture.... :)
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Gordon Bennett JS - he's looking absolutely magnificent. :wow: :wow: :Luv2: He also looks very relaxed. :Luv: Lovely to see how he's transformed with a bit of love and care.
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He is so handsome and such a change from the early days ;D ;D ;D
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I know. Donna messaged me and said how happy she was with his progress recently. She's (quite rightly) very proud of the steps they've made in the last few weeks. :)
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He's a fine specimen no doubt. :Luv2:
Well done Donna, lets hope this Summer brings TG closer still. ;D
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Another photo from "The Food Lady" as she refers to herself. :evillaugh:
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nonchalant insouciance ;) :evillaugh:
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He is just doing so well ;D
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Thanks for the pic JS. He looks great ;D
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There's a video on FB which shows how well he's doing. Donna is talking to him and he's just sat looking at her; no nervous body language, just a rather bemused expression. He'll still only let her get so close but there's definite progress.
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Donna is an angel JS and was obviously the perfect choice as the General's slave :) :)
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Poor girl seems to be attracting every "sad case" in the area at present. :-:
EDIT: By that I mean sad, skinny looking cats seem to have her pegged as the best course of action. ;)
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New photo sent to me today - I very much want this framing, I love it. :)
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He's very handsome JS :Luv2:
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He's very handsome JS :Luv2:
Exactly!
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I know. :) We could see he would be, past that terrible condition fur, and sad looking eyes. Donna is truly a blessing to this boy. She loves him so much. :)
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Prepare to be amazed....
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Oh my GOD! is that The General being playful and interactive???
Jaws on da floors! :wow:
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He's taking chicken off his "Food Ladys" knee. ;)
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Todays picture.
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oooohoooohoooo - am lauging like a Tigger. What a fantastic sight to see - hasn't Donna worked a miracle here?
:wow: :wow: :evillaugh: :Luv: He is one superb boy. His fur now is just wonderful. :)
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Gawd bless him, wiley use of chikkun. So happy for you Donna. x
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It seems Donna is his guardian angel. From the moment she saw his photo on FB, she felt connected to him. A lot of people would've decided to just feed him and leave him as a garden cat, but both of us felt there was a "family cat" in there that had been mistreated and needed reminding people could be good.
She's doing an amazing job. :)
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Amazing, I predict TG will be indoors and taking over the house before very long. I am never wrong! :rofl:
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He looks wonderful and she is doiung a great job ;D ;D
I saw the one on FB earlier of him by the door ;D ;D
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It gets better....
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Amazing, I predict TG will be indoors and taking over the house before very long. I am never wrong! :rofl:
ErHEM! :wow: :wow: :wow: :rofl:
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Amazing, I predict TG will be indoors and taking over the house before very long. I am never wrong! :rofl:
ErHEM! :wow: :wow: :wow: :rofl:
:evillaugh: :evillaugh:
It would be lovely to think that by the time the cold winter nights draw in, The Gneeral may be looking for a cosy place to tuck himself into - inside the house - without any fear. ;D God, it makes you feel so fuzzy inside to see the difference in this cat! :Luv:
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how lovely to see him inside!
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Amazing, I predict TG will be indoors and taking over the house before very long. I am never wrong! :rofl:
ErHEM! :wow: :wow: :wow: :rofl:
Smartie pants.... :evillaugh: ;)
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These pictures are so amazing :wow:
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Just read this whole thread, amazing! 'Mon the Donna! :)
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;D ;D ;D
What amazing pics. Thanks for the update JS :) :)
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General initiated a STROKE today. :) Groundbreaking!
Here's the quote from the photo Donna/Food Lady/Mum put on his FB page:
"Whilst Meowmy was crouched down scooping my dinner into my bowl, i slowly rubbed the back of my head against her forearm. She then slowly but gently stroked me all down my back. I stood still whilst she did this.
But when she went for a second stroke, I span quickly around and swiped her hard!
Just putting her in her place, that's all ;)
PS, she said I feel like a scouring pad!"
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Aww thats definitely progress :)
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Brilliant, he will be a in the house cat by Christams ;D ;D ;D
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What a gigantic step forward! Donna must be feeling so made up! ;D It would be lovely to think eventually The General could feel brave enough to over winter in the house with Donna.
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He certainly has progressed hasn't he :) :)
Thanks for the update JS :hug:
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If you have FB, you need to look at Generals page....it's amazing. Truly.
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Awwww, that is good to hear! ;D
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General, it seems, is turning into a regular fuss monster. If I can figure out how to lift a video off FB I'll share one on here. :)
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:evillaugh: This is just wonderful news. He's finally learning what trust is about. :)
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Great news JS :) :)
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A couple of breakthroughs with General.....it seems he now always eats his supper in the porch, and has ventured into the living room and sat watching the fish. The biggest thing though has to be allowing Donna to close the door for THREE HOURS while he slept in the kitchen very recently. :) :Luv: Proud of him.
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Aw, JS. What a grand lad. He's very brave, and I think you and Donna can be rightly proud. With winter coming on, I hope The General may find himself a warm and dry cosy corner in Donna's home, and find out what it really means to be comfortable. :Luv:
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He certainly has made progress :) :)
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This is wonderful ;D ;D
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Thanks for the update, I was wondering how the lovely chap was getting on!
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Added tonight.... :) :Luv:
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Such a great pic JS :Luv2: :Luv2:
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Great to see him inside and just in time for the cold weather.
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What a good boy!
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Cor!!!! Way to go, General!!! :wow: :wow: :wow:
Donna is like Wonder Woman. ;D :evillaugh:
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Donna rocks. Repeatedly, I tell her this. ;) I'm sure it's no coincidence that we ended up in contact again years after she used to come to my home for after school care. General was meant to be a part of her family, I firmly believe that. :)
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A match made in heaven then JS :) ;D :Luv:
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One of the newest photos...thought you'd all like this one.
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Am just loving that one JS. It's like a scene from a Christmas card - imagine the snow outside, and inside it's all cosy and warm, the cat on the hearth - all it needs is a stocking hung from the mantel, and there you have it! ;D
Donna Rocks, Donna Rocks ;) :wow:
The General has, at long last, come in from the cold, and got himself a cosy billet. What a lovely lovely outcome.
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:Luv2:
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He looks as if he now has his paws firmly under the table ;D Well done Donna!!
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Just such a wonderful story..........The Cat Comes in from Cold.......... ;D ;D ;D
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Enough said. ;)
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Christmas miracle. Well done Donna (and you, Shonagh) :cuddle: :gold stars:
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Just fantastic ;D
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Lovely news and pic ;D
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Newest photo. General learning "technical stuff" with his sister. ;)
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Are you quite sure that's the General JS? :shify: He looks like he had plenty of turkey at Christmas :) :Luv2: :Luv2: :Luv2:
Love his sister's head gear :)
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Fabulous! ;D ;D Good to see he's keeping up with the techie stuff. :evillaugh:
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Such a heartwarming pic :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
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Such a heartwarming pic :Luv: :Luv: :Luv:
Seconded! :briggin:
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Wow, he is looking wonderful :wow:
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Most definitely him, Rosella. He's rather more rotund these days. ;)
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Advert for Dreamies, featuring General....
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That's a real "cat laugh" ;D ;)
I love updates on The General. His is such a great story and such a complete transformation. :Luv:
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I love that pic ;D ;D ;D He looks so happy :Luv: :Luv:
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Lovely ;D Does he live inside now?
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Attaboy!! :briggin:
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The General and his story is just wonderful ;D ;D ;D
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General still feels most comfortable sleeping in his shed at night. But when Donna and her daughter get home from their days, he's always waiting for them for his tea. He comes into the house, eats and chills out with them for quite a few hours. When he's ready to bed down for the night, he lets Donna know by going to the door to be let out.
She's watched him a number of times, he goes straight to his shed and basket and sleeps there until morning. Apparently he rarely leaves the garden now. :)
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What a lovely story. No doubt after so long living feral, he's not keen on the thought of being "shut in" but what an incredible and truly amazing measure of his trust that he now lives the way he does, and clearly thinks so much of his humans. Donna must be so chuffed. :Luv:
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its is a great story, heartwarming is the word!
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That is just amazing JS and so heart warming ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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For anyone with a FB a video was just posted on his page today. Apologies, I've no idea how to share a video off a page yet otherwise I'd post it here for you all. :)
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I saw it JS. He's such a sweetheart :Luv: :Luv:
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What's the facebook page called?
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I don't have access to Facebook right now but I think it's just called 'The General'.
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I think this is our lad :wow:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-General/367787009960692
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Thanks Rosella, what astounding progress, totally amazing how he has come on in his his own time, well done his owners and JS you must be so proud ;D ;D ;D
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So grateful for the link Rosella - that's possibly the most complete picture of The General's journey, and boy does it show how far he's come, and what a splendid littl snuggle-puss he is now to back then. Talk about unlocking a cat's true potential. :wow: :Luv2:
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Bless his little heart! How wise Donna was to step back and let things happen in the General's own time, rather than trying to make him conform to what she wanted. What she has now is a boy who chooses to spend time with her, who feels safe enough to ask for affection when he wants it, she is a truely special person! :briggin:
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Generals Mum is indeed a special lady. She saw my updates on my own FB profile and felt such a connection with him she messaged me asking if I'd reconsider and allow him to be relocated after trapping. (The plan was to get someone else on my street to take on "ownership and feeding duties.")
We talked about his needs via message and decided on the best course of action, then I went into fundraising mode. ;)
I'm SO proud of her, her daughter and General. They're all amazing. :)
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The General is proof of what can be achieved with time and patience. :) :)