Is this a sign of the times? Looked out our door one afternoon and saw a beautiful Siamese cat sitting in the sunlight. It looked well fed and cared for. Gorgeous blue eyes. We assumed it belonged to a neighbor, and had decided to wander. At sundown, the cat was still there. Surely, it would be gone by morning. But it wasn’t. What in the world was wrong? We hadn’t fed it, so why did it stay? It seemed impossible that someone would purposely abandon such a lovely animal. If so, did they expect us to take over their responsibility? But we really can’t. Therefore, I’m asking the person who would do such a thing: Please don’t dump your pussy cat here.
Even though I’m allergic to cats, I don’t dislike them. Something had to be done. Called family and friends, who suggested posting the cats picture on Facebook or printing lost cat posters. But that would take time, and meanwhile, the cat could starve.
Called the humane shelter, who informed us they don’t pick up strays. Said we would have to take our chances by picking up the cat and taking it to the shelter, ourselves. Not feasible for elderly folks in poor health. Called animal dispatch at the police department , but they took the same stance as the humane shelter: We don’t pick up strays. And so, whoever left their cat on our doorstep had a reason. Unless we were cold hearted people, we would have to adopt a cat at a time when we’re lucky to be able to take care of ourselves.
Decided to call the police department to task. Called them back and asked: ” How can you expect a 91 year old man and his arthritic wife to pick up a strange cat and drive it to the shelter?” They caved, and finally agreed too pick it up the next day. Advised us not to feed it. Which was difficult, since we are empathic folks. But they came as promised, and the cat is somewhere far away from here.
It boggles the mind: Why would anyone be so lacking in compassion as to abandon a pet? Apparently, it’s a fairly common occurrence., and there are many reasons. The first thing that comes to mind is the economy. Did someone have to make a choice between feeding themselves or the cat? Did they adopt the animal without realizing the expense involved? Maybe they were too embarrassed to take it to the humane shelter. Easier to leave that job to a stranger.