Ask Your Pet

Dear Maureen,

Boots is a very sweet cat who had lots to say. The first thing she told me is that when she’s really happy she makes a funny noise that’s almost like a trill. She likes being rubbed on her chest, but be careful when trying this since many cats go into attack mode when petted on their undersides! Boots feels a little wary of the other animals in her foster home, but she’s warming up to a dog who is inquisitive about her in a friendly, respectful way. She said her foster parents should be patient with her as she’s still adjusting. She would like them to let her have her space and come to them on her own terms. It will help her feel more secure if they make a habit of praising her for whatever they can possibly find to praise her for, even if they feel silly. They should tell her every day that they love her and that she’s with them until she finds her forever home. And, they should do whatever they can to make her feel special, like giving her toys or a bed that are just for her. Just make sure that they remember not to smother her or make her feel like their attention is being forced upon her.

Boots seems to like teenage boys, and keeps showing me an image of a boy playing basketball. She’d like to have a forever home with older children who will love her but be respectful. She wants to be the adored princess of the household - not smothered, but adored. She would rather not be with a lot of other animals, perhaps just one dog. It’s not so much that she doesn’t like them, but she wants to be the star.

Boots said she’s a bit weird about food because before you rescued her she was very hungry. She needs very nutritious food, but something simple like California Natural Chicken and Brown Rice. Some of the upscale cat foods that contain vegetables or fruit might upset her stomach, which she says is a little delicate right now. She feels that this is because she’s adjusting to eating normal cat food and it’s not a major problem, although she thinks a probiotic for cats would be helpful.

Boots’ natural disposition is sweet and loving, and she will begin to be more trusting and affectionate with time and constancy. She says thank you for rescuing her!

Many Blessings,

Jennifer Dickman

Readers: Boots is a wonderful girl who dreams of being the princess of her forever home. If you’re interested in adopting her, please email Maureen Finney at mfinney617@yahoo.com.