When I got back from the grocery store today, I approached the door, and it looked like Little feet was curled up at the door, wearing his worse "Oh misery!" look, waiting for someone to let him back in.

Little Feet is a stray who adopted us a couple of years ago, and has been afraid to go out ever since he moved in. So I was very surprised to see him at the door.

Well I looked more closely. Little feet is all orange from his head to his tail. This cat was the same age, or thereabouts, but was curled up in such a way that I didn't see the white paws or tummy.

I finally recognized it as the pretty stray that was sitting on our neighbors' van last night. last night, I petted him, although he was very reluctant to be touched, then brought out Little Feet and Presto one at a time (and not close enough to start a hissy fit - grin), and introduced them (okay, this is one of my bad habits...).

So apparently this cat decided I might be a nice guy, and was curled up on my doorstep. As i unlock the door, i tell him "Don't go away - I'll bring you something good to eat."

I hurried and got two bowls, a big scoop of catfood, and a big glass of cold water (it was 100+ outside today). When I went out, I didn't see him(!), but when I called "Here, kitty, kitty, kitty!" I heard (behind me - grin) A loudly meowed "Here I am! Here I am!"

So I put down the bowls and poured the water, and went back for more groceries from the car. Little Feet and Presto are peeking out the door when I come in, this time, wondering who this strange cat is, and why I'm feeding him.

Then I get to thinking that he might appreciate something a little nicer than plain catfood (which he has nearly finished off already!), and dice up a couple thick slices of ham (of COURSE, Little Feet and Presto get some, first).

When I put it outside, he is very appreciative - loud purrs, leans into my hand to be petted, and rubs against my leg, all without looking up from the ham (grin).

He was gone when I went back out after putting up the groceries, but all the ham and catfood was gone, and so was half the water. I bet I see more of him, though.

Copyright © Mark Edwards
August 20, 2000