It Looks Like I Slept In A Raspberry Patch... An Update on the Little Deaf Kitty.

[DonRedwood]

This is the kind of month that can leave your knees shaking and your stomach in knots. Several hundred of my coworkers were laid off. Of my team of six, I am the only one who didn’t get a pink slip. For the past month I’d been waiting for it, trying to stay calm and not freak out.

So Fate, in her usual manner, decided now would be a really good time to screw with everything else in life, because why have just one piece of craziness going on when you can have a dozen? I don’t want to bore you with all the details but just imagine how you’d feel if you woke up one morning and everyone you work with was gone, Michele Bachmann was President, the weight of the world was on YOUR shoulders and one of your teeth fell out. Just one serious mind-****(bleep) after another.

It was that kind of month.

And I was seriously close to freaking out. My partner and I have never had an argument, but we got close. Emotionally I was getting to that stage where even little things were upsetting me. Last week I started crying because my French press coffee came out tasting gross. Seriously. It was not looking pretty.

And then we brought home the little deaf kitten.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022908026 (It Is Very Quiet In His Little World)

I cannot begin to tell you all what an amazing addition to our home he has become. Our first reaction to figuring out he was deaf was sadness. But, let me tell you, there hasn’t been much sadness since. This little fellow has been such a light in our life! So much so, that I’ve been coming home from my terrible situation at work and the minute I walk in the door, I’ve forgotten everything about work. Everything. I mean, who can even think about work with a tiny white kitten crawling up your leg purring and chirping “hello!!!”

We are doing our best to figure out how to train him. Three gentle taps for “no” has been working (most of the time) but that doesn’t help much when the kitten is waking you up by biting your nose at 3 in the morning. We bought a couple of spray bottles but we haven’t used one yet. We don’t want to scare him unless it is a big rule (climbing the drapes, eating my face, etc.).
He meows a little but mostly he has little chirps and purrs. When I get home from work and he sees me for the first time he’ll jump up in the air and start purring immediately and then he runs as FAST AS HE CAN to me. His purr is so loud I can hear him purring from across the room as he runs. It melts my heart!

We still talk and sing to him as much as our other pets. We haven't picked a name yet and my partner said, "We can just let people call him whatever they want since he can't hear it." When he looks at us we say "Meow". It might sound silly but when you say "meow" your mouth moves in a really distinct way. We don't know what his name is yet, but he's coming now when he sees our mouth form the word meow.

We’ve learned to make sure he sees us go when we leave the room or the house. Otherwise he cries and cries while he searches for us. Our older cat as been OK about the things but he is sick of the kitten attacking his tail. The kitten can’t hear his warning meows or hisses. But so far our older cat has been a good cat uncle and has merely gotten up and walked away. We’re keeping his nails trimmed just in case, bus so far he’s been pretty nice about the whole thing.

And our Big Old Moose of a dog (85 lbs the last time we weighed the beast) continues to be the most amazing dog. The kitten has three favorite things in the world: chewing on the dog’s tail, chewing on the dog’s ear or attacking the dog’s paw. “Get the Paw” is probably his favorite since no matter what the dog is doing there is a paw the kitten can reach. (Here is game #4311 of “Get the Paw!”)

And through it all that Big Moose has taken chomp after chomp from those shark-like kitty teeth, and swipe after swipe of those dagger-like little kitty claws. She just patiently sits there while the kitty crawls on her back, her head, roots around for some milk, gnaws her snout, her leg, her ears. She is gentle and sweet. We knew we had a good dog but this kitty has shown us just how blessed we are with our Giant Moose Dog.

And so this scrappy little deaf kitten that we thought really needed us, just might be what we really needed. The Moose has a little buddy she adores, and licks, and frolics with all day, our older cat gets a break from being frolicked with by 85 lb dog all day, and my partner and I get this tiny little white piece of fluff who makes us giggle and laugh pretty much all day long.

And my stress almost seems gone. I’m sad about work but I can’t do anything about it. But it isn’t hanging over my life like a black cloud now either. All I can think about is the kitten. What is he doing? Where did he go? Why do my legs look like I slept in a raspberry patch? Now what is he knocking over?

And he’s so cute that I just keep melting every time I look at him. I’m even taking naps for the first time in my life because the kitty is sleepy and all I want to do is curl up with him. (My partner is upstairs right now curled up asleep on the bed with this little white tuft sticking out from under his arm). At night he sleeps in my armpit. At least until 3 a.m. or so when his desire for nose biting wakes him up.

So there is an update on our new little friend. He’s put on a little weight, no more fleas, his being deaf has made us love him more but I don’t think we love him as much as the Big Moose does. All is well. He found a really good home and we found a really good friend.

And now I know the answer for stress, sadness and misery. Kittens. Kittens!! KITTENS!! For God’s sake people, if you are feeling down, if you’re sick or downtrodden, I highly recommend this amazing cure-all. Kittens. (except for scratches…that is the major side-effect to kittens).

Have an awesome weekend everybody.

[CatWoman]

1. I DEMAND

more pics

[DonRedwood]

2. I have HUNDREDS already

kitten + digital camera = no limits to how many pictures you can take!

[DonRedwood]

10. And, since you demanded and all...

Here is a picture of a rousing game of "Eat that Ear!"

[Triana]

23. OMG that is so cute!

Awwwwr. And such a sweet doggie to endure this! LOL! Just. Too. Cute.

[DonRedwood]

27. i know...she doesn't even react!

I scream like a little girl when he goes for my toes.

[Voice for Peace]

83. oops

"scream like a little girl" might not go over well here..

apart from that.. wow on the kitty. I would train using
the pinch of the neck like a momma cat, remove physically/
change the focus of the kitty.. it may only be a partial
solution but often is very effective. (I have taught a
cat not to bite and scratch me that way.)

Also, tons and tons of physical stimulation of the
whole body, firm massaging and holding, akin to
the grooming and firm licks of a mother -- important
for brain development in early months.

There is a book called "Think and Grow Rich" by
Napoleon Hill, in which he tells an amazing story
about his son, who was born without any external
ears. At some point he observed his son responding
rhythmically to music while holding on to the
music machine, whatever it was.. and he realized
that he could 'hear' through feeling. After that
he began talking to his son by holding his chin
bone against his son's skull when he spoke, so
that the vibrations of sound were felt directly
in his son's body/head.. long story short, this
son learned to hear.

As I heard the story, what he talked to his
son about was that he could do anything;
that nothing was impossible. This guy was
very much into the power of positive thinking,
one of the pioneers probably.
Here is a clip of him speaking about his
no-longer-deaf son

[CatWoman]

57. awwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

[Beacool]

68. That dog is beyond good.

[grilled onions]

3. Pets Have A Way Of Making Bad Things(times) Better

"Meow" has made a cast of new friends and you have fallin' in love with another fur baby. You are good for each other and the "recipe" will only improve the more everyone adjusts to this wonderful addition to the family.

[DonRedwood]

38. Yes they do

but it has been a loooong time since I've had a kitten. He's a terror and the cutest thing ever all at the same time.

[Loup Garou]

88. It's "kitten season"

The Original POPCORN KITTENS

These are just some kittens I rescued who went crazy after they felt a plastic tarp on their feet for the first time. I was just trying to make them a bigger place to be able to run around, but instead it ended up being a playpen! That is why I chose the music of Scott Joplin, because it reminded me of one of those old movies they play ragtime music to, while funny things are happening. It was too hilarious not to record, so I tried to capture the funniest moments in this video compilation. =) Enjoy! - Erica Camp

[a la izquierda]

4. Tiny critters soothe the turbulent soul.

When I have a bad day, there is nothing like dragging all three of my dogs onto the bed for a pack snuggle/nap session. I unfortunately cannot have indoor cats, as my allergies are awful.

I'm so happy little kitty found you and that he has fit into the pack nicely.

[DonRedwood]

6. my partner is very allergic. every scratch means a quick run to the bathroom to stop the hives

but he loves cats so he puts up with it. his allergy meds help too, of course. (plus he's kind of allergic to everything so he's used to it)

[a la izquierda]

11. I will likely start getting shots...

when my husband opens his boarding kennels. I'll have to help him out at first, and I can handle it as long as I don't get scratched or rub my eyes. Indoor cats are still a ways off. I have a Hungarian Viszla who thinks cats (and bunnies and groundhogs) are things to hunt, not to love. He's gotten better, but I would be too nervous with a kitty.

[dembotoz]

70. we have several cats and the only one that i am allergic to is the one who loves me and i love best

drives me nuts
if she nuzzles me with her little wet nose--hives start to appear

should not play favorites and do not mean to play favorites but Holly is special

[avebury]

77. I remember reading about a lady a long time ago who was

allergic to cats but loved them. She owned several and figured, since she was allergic to them, the number of cats really didn't make that much of a difference.

[Skeeter Barnes]

5. Thanks for the story and pic. Looks like Moose takes it in stride.

I wouldn't take anything for my cat.

[DonRedwood]

35. Hey Skeeter! Welcome to DU!

Happy to have you here with us. (and your cat too!)

[calimary]

90. Welcome to DU Skeeter Barnes!

Glad you're here! I wouldn't take anything for our four cats and dog. Our dog is big, gentle, loving, and wonderful just like Moose. We got her from the pound, one day after the pound people had to terminate her pregnancy. We've often wondered if she thinks those cats are her puppies.

This is a WUNNNNNderful thread! Thanks, DonRedwood!

[Skeeter Barnes]

91. Thanks to you and Don both for the warm welcome.

These little animals certainly are a pleasure and they are always faithful. When you are hurting and nobody cares, they will be there for you.

My cat Sparkles is sleeping right now. She likes to stay up all night and keep an eye on her territory now that it's warm outside! She is definitely a warm weather cat.

[IMG][/IMG]

[bettyellen]

7. Animals= stress relief can be so true. A few years back, I was having a very rough time with

some humans being assholes, and I would go to the park and meditate at lunch.
Then I noticed the dog run, and started watching them. Then I started going inside. Kind of weird, I know, but really good for the blood pressure. It was awesome being able to go in there and be smothered with puppy love. People occasionally wondered how I would get covered with dog hair on my lunch, but I learned to brush it off. And brush off the assholes too.
Great reminder.

[Hekate]

8. Best post of the day--week-- month

[LittleGirl]

32. +1

[DonRedwood]

34. Every post would be a winner if it had a kitten picture attached!

Or a puppy. And maybe a baby squirrel, t hose are mighty cute too.

And thank you for the kind words. :0)

[Hekate]

49. My little Betsy was the best gift ever

My late MIL's friend gave her a cockapoo puppy, and she was so enchanted with the notion that she bought me one as a b'day gift. As I sat on the floor looking at the litter, the littlest one of all crawled into the space between my legs. When we brought her home she was 3 1/2 pounds of fluff. My MIL had no idea just how depressed and dark I was -- I think very few people did -- but I clung to that little dog like a life raft. Betsy remained a baby for years, perfectly willing to be carried around the house in my arms, floppy on her back, about 8 pounds. She adored my husband so much that we called her Freudian Puppy, because of the look she would give me from his arms: "I love you mom, but daddy's mine." She was still pretty sure she was a human baby, I think, even after the grown kids started coming home with their dogs, until my daughter was given the most awful Jack Russell pup and brought it home. I named her Bounce, and I was able to train her out of screaming, but she stole all of Betsy's toys and was so incredibly high-energy that finally Betsy was reduced to laying on top of her toys and snapping in a vain effort to keep them. Poor Beta Betsy had a bit of a nervous breakdown, and afterward she was quite sure she was a dog after all. A Princess, a darling, but not a baby human. She passed away at an advanced age a couple of years ago, and I have her ashes in a wooden box, with her favorite squeaky toy (a very small rubber ducky) on top.

Last fall we got an 11-month old poodle/Lhasa Apso mix who needed a new home. Cali is a totally different person. I can't believe she is only 12 pounds, because she feels many times bigger than Betsy. Lie down on her back and be carried? I don't think so. Her legs go straight up in the air before she wiggles around so she can see everything that's going on. She's the only pet in the house, and I think we are a bit boring (mid-6os), so she invents mischief in the back yard. She dug a pretty deep hole going after a gopher, and had a wonderful time getting totally muddy. Was fine with being washed off, but not sure why I was making a fuss (and didn't care). Very smart, very active. I'm really glad I have her. Right after I got her I got sick -- about 3 times total during the winter. During one bout I had pain and chills, and thinking I was alone in the house, allowed myself the luxury of groaning. Up came Cali with a dog biscuit in her mouth, and sat beside me, and offered me her cookie. "Feel better?" Oh, much.

I'm so glad your kitty found you and Big Moose.

[IrishAyes]

74. I am also trying to raise a JRT

And she is truly one unholy terror. At six months Brigid still acts like she's on speed or something. Little bugger even jumped up in the air and nipped me hard on the arm yesterday. Puncture wound, too. Just playing of course, but it still hurt. I yelled at her and then treated my wound. But by the time I finished, I'd forgotten to stay mad, especially when she came up and licked my toes. She was sorry. If I ever survive her puppyhood, she'll be fine, I'm sure. But I've had many dogs and many kinds of dogs throughout my life, and not one has ever been quite like a JRT. They're something else. I'm just praying that she doesn't take to jumping the fence, because she could if she decided to. So far she just stands up and puts her front paws through the openings. She was little enough when I got her that her foster sister Molly Maguire had nothing to fear from her. They've bonded like glue. Maybe that'll help keep Brigid in the yard, especially after she's spayed this month.

But if you couldn't warm to your daughter's JRT, that's certainly understandable. Sometimes I think I must be crazy to keep mine. But she's been so good for Molly that I can't help loving her. I also have a mortal dread of being w/o a dog, and sometimes one does expire, so I have to have two. Brigid's as much for me as she is for Molly.

[Hekate]

78. My daughter's best dog ever was 1/2 JRT and 1/2 Pom!

Kore was smart as a whip and a chubby 5 pound Alpha dog. She would literally run up and over my son's 90 pound dog, who thought she was cute. The cat was more than twice her size and they coexisted just fine. I loved her to bits.

Bounce though. Jeez. Grown daughter was walking with Kore on the beach one gray day, and on the return two homeless guys started a conversation. One had a little dog in his jacket, trying to keep it warm, and they said that "Precious Jewel" was the reason their landlord had evicted them. They said they could tell she was really good with dogs, and would she please take Precious Jewel and give her a home?

I watched that critter bounce around my kitchen and shook my head. Oh boy. I was actually doing fine with all the dogs at that point, so while my daughter was at work I worked on that dog. She chewed the edge of the couch, twice, and widdled on it at least once. Instead of barking, she had this scream that drilled right through the eardrums. Terrorized Betsy. Caused the half-crazy 90 pound Dobie/Lab mix to growl at her, and she was too stupid to recognize that she was next thing to being a snack if she kept that up. The cat ignored her. Kore was fine for play but otherwise not overly impressed.

I look back on those days fondly. I am not up to multiples of pets any more, but that was kind of fun while it lasted. Anyhow, I got Bounce fairly well under control, and I got her to stop screaming by clamping her jaws shut and firmly saying No! every time she tried it.

The office manager where my daughter worked allowed them to bring a dog to work, so after bringing in Kore a number of times she started bringing in Bounce. The office manager loved Bounce, and my daughter decided to give her the dog. Some time later I asked how that worked out, and my daughter said it was fine except that her new owner thought the scream was cute and kind of encouraged it. Ew.

In general I like terriers for short visits. Their energy, alertness, and sparkle are charming. But the downside is they can be relentless and exhausting. A friend who is a cocker spaniel fan calls terriers "terrierists." Best of luck with yours!

[IrishAyes]

84. Thanks - I know we're in for a wild ride

Molly Maguire, the mini beagle/pom mix, was just about a year old and calmed down enough that I was about to let her out of the big baby bed and into my bed with me. But then came Brigid, so that plan has to wait until she calms down. At least enough to stop trying to cram her muzzle down my throat like a baby bird feeding. She nearly starved to death the first 3 months of her life, though, and went through no telling what other kind of hell, so I try to understand her emotional needs as much as I can.

I seriously doubt Brigid was housetrained on arrival, but Molly took her under her 'wing' and there've been no accidents so far. I love Brigid with all my heart, but must admit that being locked up with her or any JRT in a small apartment would be my worst nightmare. A lot of the reason we're doing so well is that she can run and play outdoors most of the time. Always in at night from 10:30 to 6, of course. But during the worst of winter, I could still let her out 15 minutes every 2 hours, and there wasn't much winter left when she came. By next November she will have quite a few more months growth on her, and she learns the law here pretty fast. She will probably have to be at least 2 years old though before I give her complete and unsupervised free rein indoors.

At least she doesn't scream!

[840high]

54. +100

[Brigid]

9. This is why . . .

It is scientifically proven that pet kittehs -- and doggies -- are good for us.

[DonRedwood]

43. I'm living proof of that!

(Kitty is asleep in my lap now as I type this)

[Jazzgirl]

12. Like Catwoman, I demand more pics too!

Kitty is so cute. My furry Chloe is laying in my lap as I type. Even when I've been depressed I always feel better when she's there.

[DonRedwood]

44. see comment #10

[jmowreader]

13. His name is Meow. Deal with it.

[lunatica]

14. Thank you for this!

We have a tabby who showed up one day and adopted us when he was a juvenile. He was healthy and beautiful and his name is King Tut because of the 'make-up' look tabbies have. He's a total delight to us. He also comes to greet me when I get home, but he's much more aloof about it than your kitten. He and our dog get along very well too, though nothing like Big Old Moose. I wish I had known King Tut when he was a kitten.

[life long demo]

15. Awww Don, this is so sweet

First, if you are not a writer, you should be. Reading this put me in the box that I could see Little Deaf Kitten, racing around, "attacking sweet Moose", teasing your older cat until he finally gets up and leaves for a quieter area. I wish everyone could feel what I feel reading your post. Love for all creatures. Thank you, this was a great read this afternoon. When the weight of the world is on your shoulders, there is nothing like a cat or dog to help lift the weight.

[DonRedwood]

37. Thank you for the lovely words.

Strong is the force in this little one! :0) He is cheering up people all over the place today!!

[dmr]

16. I love your stories of Baby Meow. Especially this:

When I get home from work and he sees me for the first time he’ll jump up in the air and start purring immediately and then he runs as FAST AS HE CAN to me. His purr is so loud I can hear him purring from across the room as he runs. It melts my heart!

Oh, how wonderful that must feel. Baby Meow truly does love you.

What a special family you have, and this thread isn't any good unless there are tons of pictures.

[Arugula Latte]

17. Yes!!! Kittens cure the blues!!!

Soooo cute!

Thanks for the update!

[DonRedwood]

40. My partner was reading the comments and started laughing out loud

Your penguins really tickled him.

[Arugula Latte]

41. Oh good. Glad he liked 'em.

Hi, Don's partner.

[TalkingDog]

18. Try sign language. Dogs learn it really quickly (especially the sign for cheese)

Cats probably can too. I'd start with the sign for food for a week or so. He'll learn to watch your hands then pair the sign for food with his name. Then separate it back out... all over the course of weeks. And when he's probably a little older. But no harm in trying now.

Of course you can make up a sign for his name, but we have found it easier to just use American Sign Language Dictionary here if you want to give it a try. http://www.lifeprint.com/

Glad for you kitty. Glad for you.

[Moonwalk]

25. Cats are a little harder. If you point they won't follow your finger, they'll just stare--

--at your hand, interested to know why you've got one finger out

I think they're doing right in actually touching the kitten, which would have felt the rumble of mom's purr and her licks and nips and such while it was in its blind state. Meow (Mao?) there is used to translating touch into meaning--hands are likely still toys to it like the dog's paw and the cat's tail. So touching the cat in different ways is a good way to signal it. A tap on the head for "no," a scratch on a favorite spot for "good"--and maybe stomp a foot so it feels the vibrations thought the floor if kitty needs to be startled out of doing something naughty.

And yes, I know we all want to stop the cat from afar with a wave or gesture, but I promise you that my cats, who can hear, do NOT listen to me when I shout "NO!" They keep doing what they're doing till I get up and walk towards them. That's cats for you ("Oh, you were serious about that "no"?...okay....&quot .

[DonRedwood]

92. Yeah, we considered the squirt gun method but don't want to scare him

He's just so tiny. When he's a bit bigger we will probably eventually use it. (jumping on the stove, for instance)

[Samantha]

19. If she were my kitty, I would name her snowflake

I know she can't hear and that is why you haven't named her, but that name seems to fit her because snowflakes are so beautiful and so is she.

You are right about animals being stress-relievers. I don't know what I would do without mine.

Thanks for posting the pictures.

Sam

[Warren Stupidity]

20. What a sweet post. Thanks for sharing!

[LeftofObama]

21. What a couple of sweeties!

[Triana]

22. Awwwwwr. Little "Meow" is obviously an angel sent to help you...

....through this tough time in your life.

[DainBramaged]

24. Nothing makes my shitty day better than a GREAT kitteh story.....

Thank you.......

[narnian60]

26. So happy it worked out for all of you.

Weren't there other kittens you were concerned about?

[GentryDixon]

28. What a wonderful update, Red.

This little kitty has struck gold with you and your partner.

[lamp_shade]

29. You're a wonderful, wonderful storyteller. Thank you.

[brewens]

30. I haven't had a kitten since I was a kid. All my cats have been strays and one that was

abondoned at my girlfriends cafe. We knew who "Fatty's" owners were. They didn't deserve him back so I brought him home with me. They had taken off and left him to fend for himself I guess. The girl found out from other cafe customers but I told her no way. We were already buddies and I had spent some money on vet bills to make sure he was all good. I would have demanded her covering that at least had I even considered giving him back. She wouldn't have.

Fatty was as friendly a cat as you could imagine and he was a load! A big 'ol half Siamese lovey bunch! After three years he developed kidney disease. He wasn't as old as most cats that get that, we had no clue why. I wondered if he could have been poisoned or something before I got him?

It took a couple of years for another one to find me. A big 'ol feller with hair collored yeller that I call Scram. He got that from my girlfriends son-in-law. That's what he said when Scram first came around his house. My girlfriend rescued him, cleared up an eye infection and got him healthy. We don't live in the same town but on my next visit he came home with me.

Scram is a yellow tabby. I had always liked those cats. He wasn't quite full grown when I got him though I thought he was. He's a big dude. The size of his head is amazing for a cat but from what I hear, it's not that unusual for them to get that big.

[oldhippie]

31. I like catz .....

I'm glad the little guy is making you happy!

[1620rock]

33. Best Uplifting Post Ever

I LOVE a sweet love story!

[SamReynolds]

36. I read that.

About your little deaf kitty.

You're all a wonderful gift back to The Divine. Thanks.

[onlyadream]

39. Last year this exact time we were also in a slump

Husband got laid off, plus a lot of other stuff. And then our little gray kitty came into out lives. My 16yo daughter snuck him in, he was about four weeks old. He had a respitory infection and one eye was sealed shut with puss. He wouldn't let me near him, hissing and spitting (I can't believe I was frightened by a 4 oz waif). THEN....I fed him. Suddenly he became my best friend. He crawled into my arms and that was it. My whole family is over the moon for this little, I mean big, guy (he grew in leaps and bounds). A HUGE stress reliever!!!!

[Warpy]

42. I used 3 behavior aids with my hearing cat

that would work with a deaf cat: picking her up and setting her down on the floor for bad behavior like nipping (she'd been abused, so this was a big deal), not allowing her back up for a full five minutes; using a squirt gun when she'd get into something she shouldn't; and a one fingered, gentle tap on the nose when she did something dangerous like go after an electrical cord.

She no longer nips unless I'm trying to get rid of her dreadlocks and it hurts. She no longer plays with electrical cords and I haven't had to use the squirt gun in ages, I think it's probably gone dry wherever it is. Best of all, she's no longer head shy and afraid of any hand that comes near her.

I think you can also look to your older cat to teach this little one some manners.

[aikoaiko]

45. I hate cats. But I found this story very sweet.

Best wishes to you and your little deaf kitten.

[arthritisR_US]

46. I absolutely love reading your posts about your

so very sweet family. In your time of stress and angst you answered the universe with love and a generosity of spirit. Little Meow chose well and you are all being rewarded for it. Your karma shines and you bring such a warmth to all who have the privilege of reading about you and yours. Thank you Don

[Rosco T.]

47. I recommend you name him Alva...

.. or just Thomas if you want to be conventional.. but Tom Cat?

No.. Alva.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

51. Ludwig, after Beethoven, who was also deaf

but did quite well for himself anyhow.

[MadrasT]

48. This is why I fostered kittens for 5 years

Nonstop "awwwwwwwwwwww"

Glad to hear the little one is providing some light in your life

My cats do the same for me

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

50. Nothing like a kitty or two to make the world look a little brighter.

And for those who can't have one but love them anyhow, look here: http://www.ustream.tv/ffrc

This is a cat rescue organization in Ohio that is just wonderful to watch, especially late at night when the humans go home and the kittens play. Just watching this will do wonders for your blood pressure.

[janlyn]

52. Many thanks!!

Your eloquent words bring Meow to life.I love to hear your stories and see the pictures. My cat Butters is not the love bug like your Meow, but he is very special to me. I tell people he is a rescue kitty, when the truth is he rescued me!

[Lucinda]

53. Thank you sooo much!

I've had a bad couple of weeks myself, and your post made me smile! ?

[Shrike47]

55. We got 2 kittens from the humane society last summer. They are wonderful.

Pets bring so much into your home and your life. They are indeed good for you, especially when you are under a lot of stress at work.

Good thoughts for you on the work front.

[angstlessk]

56. What a GREAT story...when my cats were kittens they used to climb on the bed at MY bedtime

and wanted to play and just do everything they could to keep me awake..I simply took them firmly in hand and planted them firmly..not hard but firmly on the floor...I did this over and over and over again over about a week...after which they got the idea and stopped disturbing me when I went to bed.

I lived on the second floor of an apartment and it was HOT in the summer and I had my fan on constantly ... and they used to walk by the plug and unplug the fan...CONSTANTLY ... I think they were getting me back for not letting them taunt me at night

[sobenji]

58. Kittens are the best medicine

I have a deaf llasa apso. He's my best friend and I talk and sing to him all the time.

[ThingsGottaChange]

59. Little Miracle Workers n/t

[Honeycombe8]

60. What a great post. Thanks for the reminder at what a pet can do to enrich our lives.

They love unconditionally, and brighten the home. I've had pets for years. I get angry, upset, disappointed, as I find a chewed up shoe or an "accident" somewhere. But no matter. I wouldn't want perfect shoes and no loveable little balls of fur. When I come home from work, all is right with the world. My babies are home and well and happy, and from the way they act, I think they feel the same way. Sigh.

[hopemountain]

61. so happy to hear you are in one another's lives -

and that you took the time to share ludwig von meow's progress & story.

my dd fostered a blind and deaf tuxedo kitty - "brindi" - she was teeny - and stayed that way. she was amazingly smart - could make her way throughout the house, was a friend to all of the other animals - including us - and lived for 7 years.
rip brindi.

[nolabear]

62. So do you ever wonder what people are doing when they read your posts?

Well, here's the answer to this one. Soon as I saw the subject line I literally settled back into my corner of the sofa in anticipation of a good read. Your affection for little Meow shines through, and it's clear how much healing you all are doing for one another. I'm delighted for you all.

I hope the tough times slack off, but I hope you keep telling tales about little Meow. You should consider writing a children's book.

[littlewolf]

63. excellent story ... pets bring so much love into

our lives, my Shelly was a 3 y/o chow/lab mix in the pound with heart worm
the staff at the shelter was paying for her treatments because she
was/is such a sweetie. We adopted her ( I had been walking her
for 2 weeks before, just kinda seeing if we were a good match.)
she is 15 now currently laying at my feet waiting to go outside
and then she gets her nightly treat.
she is my baby.

[Iwillnevergiveup]

64. Quite a story and ongoing adventure

He is adorable, winsome, and obviously happy to be with your family. How about "LUDWIG" for a name? You know, after a very deaf, but very genius Beethoven.

K&R

[Iwillnevergiveup]

65. DOH!

See that name was already suggested upthread.

[LadyHawkAZ]

66. What a beautiful kitteh he is!

Kittehs are better than Valium when a person is stressed.

[lib87]

67. Too cute!

This story brought a smile to my face. Good luck to you and your growing family!

[Beacool]

69. Animals are great, aren't they?

It seems that you found a wonderful addition to your family.

[IrishAyes]

71. Bless you for such a wonderful story.

I hope everything improves in your life, because you certainly deserve it.

And I certainly agree with you on the therapeutic value of pets. It's a cold cruel world we have to face sometimes, and the comfort and strength our furkids share makes everything more bearable.

For many years I had a Dobie-Rott mix that I found loose on a highway near a military base, and from certain signs I learned later that he'd been somebody's jungle patrol project. He was big enough to rip almost anybody or anything in as many pieces as he wanted. But when I also brought home a tiny kitten orphaned at 5 weeks, he hounded the dog unmercifully and the dog seemed to love him all the more for it. Kitty would walk up to dog asleep on the floor and butt his head against his jaws, then when they opened he'd stick his whole head in. Eventually taught the dog to carry him around as a mother cat would.

If not for a continuing stream of furkids, I never could have survived life's blows. When I get sick of mankind in general, I stop and remember all the true pet lovers and feel better just from that. So keep those stories comin'!

[FirstLight]

72. Bless you

You are receiving good karma for loving that kitty by him loving you so darn much...it's a gift that keeps on giving, and I am so glad to hear it helps the stress of the daily BS that seems to be so rampant in our lives these days.

When I went to pick up my kitty's ashes last week, I told the vet techs to keep my # on a post-it and let me know if they had anyone bring them any stripey kittens... we just picked up our new addition yesterday! His name is Oscar and he already has been nicknamed a gremlin for his antics as a spaz and general silly kitten. yes, it is food for the soul. I wasn't going to get a new cat to 'replace' our Ozzy that died...but he has soothed our souls and my kids needed that too
My son actually had me switch rooms with him last night because he couldn't handle the kitty bites on the nose at 3am! So I know what you mean. Our puppy had been depressed since the loss of his companion as well, and this one is already gunning for the new status of 'doggie's baby' as well......

[annm4peace]

73. my friends took in a rescued deaf cat

the cat lived with a women who had to go to a nursing home, so ended up with the Vet.
my friends decided to take her (cat) in.
They used sign language with her and even though she was an older cat she still responded to the sign language.
I should say hand signals cause I don't know if they were using the official sign language.

It was an amazing cat. It was declawed but it with the only one out of 5 cats that could get out of the fenced in yard that had cat fencing on top of the regular fencing.

She passed away last year but I know she had a great life and gave lots in return

[Skittles]

75. I CAN'T TAKE IT I TELL YOU

teh cute....IT BURNS!!!

[awoke_in_2003]

76. A very nice read...

having a kitten lying next to you purring is one of the worlds greatest stress relievers.

[tavalon]

79. Oh, yes, the deaf kitty will show your whole family

just how much you need him. Do you know about Oskar, the blind kitten. He has a facebook page and someone forgot to tell him he has a disability. I suspect your little kitty is the same.

Bless you for this wonderful story.

[myrna minx]

80. Awww. This is my favorite post of the month.

All of my best to you and yours.

[blondie58]

81. what a delightful post, Don!

I just went and looked at your initial post about her. I am already, in my mind, calling her Helen,as in Keller.

It sounds like you have a wonderful family. Did you find any more kittens at the Farm Store?

I haven't been spending as much time on DU as I used to, except for SamonEnchantedEvenings lol cats
Sunday morning funnies.
I can see I need to come back more. I thoroughly enjoyed your post.

Have a wonderful day.

[1StrongBlackMan]

82. Thank you ...

I am so glad I chose to read this post; so glad you wrote it.

Every Sunday, for the last 8 or so years (even during my grad school days) looked like this:

5:00a.m. - Get Up
5:05a.m. - Take Blood Pressure Medicine, Pour a cup of coffee (it's on a timer), let the dogs out, smoke a cigarette (or 3)
5:30a.m. - Turn on the TV (to cable News), Read news/opinion pieces on the internet, Get angry/cynical
7:00a.m. - Remain angry/cynical for remainder of the day
12:00a.m. - Go to bed

However, having read this piece, I think the trajectory of my day has changed ...

To this point, it looks like this:

5:00a.m. - Get Up
5:05a.m. - Take Blood Pressure Medicine, Pour a cup of coffee (it's on a timer), let the dogs out, smoke a cigarette (or 3)
5:30a.m. - Turn on the TV (to cable News), Read news/opinion pieces on the internet, Get angry/cynical
7:00a.m. - Signed on to DU, Read artcle/OP after article/OP, Got angrier/cynicaler
7:30a.m. - Read YOUR piece, smiled, Re-read your piece, smiled more
7:35a.m. - Writing this response (still smiling), turning off TV, Turning off computer ...
??????
12:00a.m. - Go to bed

Thank you!

[mythology]

85. For most cats I've found it doesn't matter what you call them

they come when they want, no matter what you call them. I could sort of get my cat to come by patting my lap, but never once by calling her name.

[The Green Manalishi]

86. I had a deaf cat. He was cool

hung out in the band jam room, would try to attack the kick drum beater, jumped up on the drum set, and climbed up the grill of my SVT while we were playing.

You dod NOT want to wake him up from a sound sleep, though, unless you wished a drip to the hospital (finally figured out I could blow on his hears and he wouldn't slash whatever touched him).

[WCGreen]

87. A squirt gun is a great way to say no when the cat doesn't hear...

Just one of those little ones we use to get at the Dime Store.

[Yo_Mama]

89. Helping another living thing is the cure for stress

But I admit that kittens are indeed very cute living things.

That is a real cutie, and the dog looks so soulfully patient!