Then this weekend I felt urgency to do it because snow and cold was coming. I took out the straw, wiped it down, insulated it, added a styrofoam base and put his familiar straw back in. He visited for a meal while I was making noise doing all this inside and he saw the nook dismantled. Then the snow and cold came but he didn’t bunker down as usual when it was ready that night. Then the next day he came but didn’t eat! Slowly he started eating again but he’s still not staying over and we have a lot of snow coming down right now and a freezing week ahead.
We connected with Duke to explain the changes in the shelter : We were surprised at what he shared. But again, we learn from the feral. We also noted that Duke didn’t have to “talk” to us. He could have said nothing but we did appreciate his thoughts and yes, we all have choices.
In my job as a pharmacist a social worker once told me that some of the homeless choose this way of life. I was surprised then as well. Its interesting that Duke mentioned human homeless as well.
We do our best to help our animal friends and they choose as well. Thanks Duke for sharing. We’re sure we’ll hear from you again.
Duke said please know that Duke does appreciate the great efforts you have gone to offer Duke shelter and food. Duke was born a feral – wild – free spirited being. Duke is not “your” pet, house kitty or responsibility . People want feral cats to be grateful and behave for them , its like the human homeless . Some choose to live this life on the street like Duke. . Duke will stop by from time to time but stop building the addition because Duke will not be staying. Duke has a built in system for the weather. Relax this is Duke’s life and Duke is good with this. That guardian angel that keeps hanging on is enough baggage for Duke.