Chumley's purr is back!

When he lived next door in the trailer and we weren't there 24/7, he always came to greet us, enjoyed being brushed and having those ginormous tom cat cheeks rubbed, and would purr and purr, and walk back and forth across our laps, and do the half-on-the-couch, half on the lap thing.

Once he moved over here full time, the dynamics of having 7 other cats made him a bit... more cautious. Not really nervous - I think cautious, or wary, are good words.

It took Billy 3 months to really get his purr going, and we knew it would take longer for Chum to really settle in, especially when in September Shelly decided he had an issue with Chum using all his spots.

With the help of a wonderful animal communicator, we got that situation resolved.

Chum often spends part of the night in the bedroom, and he's clearly totally comfortable around us and has been all along... but unless he was sleeping, he didn't enjoy being brushed or petted (he enjoyed it if waking up into it ). He came to bed to play. But every morning by the time we get up, he's back out up in the front dash.

And for the past few mornings, when I head out to clean litter boxes (first thing I do in the am LOL), he's been coming to greet me, crooning, and he walks the back of the couch - and puts his head down, saying, "bump me, mom!" (I started "petting" Bill and Chum with my head because they're so cat friendly and at first were scared of hands reaching out at them). And while that's pretty normal - for the past couple of days, each morning he starts purring his big old rumble purr when I pet him with my head!

And today he independently came over to walk back and forth across my lap as I'm using the laptop on the couch, and he enjoyed a good brush... and he let that rumble loose!

That's so awesome!!!

Yay for Chumley! And for you - I know how much it meant to you to hear that rumble!

Aww what a sorpraising & awesome good new!... . .. ..
thnk you for share it with us!...

That's great Chumley is beautiful cat!

Aww, I just bet that guy has a big old rumble!

Aw, what great news!

You know, when you think of it you realize how quickly they do adapt to their new surroundings - and Chum had a lot to adapt to.

It's such a blessing when you can see them settling in, and responding to their new environment - the one continual "norm" for Chumley is his People, and the love they are faithful about providing.

Our "outside" cats have been inside now since the first of October - and this week they are finally showing that they are comfortable with their new "confinement", and are jumping, running, chasing, and getting into the routine of living with humans. And, yes - am finally getting good strong purrs from Gray's son - a former feral. (Gray has always purred for us - he's such an easy-going cat, there isn't much that gets him excited.)

We have not allowed our other cats to be in the same living space - but, that will come with time, too.

It's funny, all four are now in the office with me - Gray has found a spot on my desk next to my computer that I think he's claimed as his.

So, I celebrate this milestone with you - it's great to hear that purr of contentment - especially after all the events that have preceded his living with you.

And I bet it made your whole day too!!! So great hun!

That's such heartwarming news (in this cold December weather). Chumley is a peach of a cat. AND he has a loud motor. I love that!


Robin

I can just see all of you smiling with me!

Gloria, I'm so glad yours are settling in! And you're right - it is amazing how quickly they do adapt! I remember looking at Billy over this past summer and noticing - he is 100% at home, totally himself - like he's always been here and part of the crew. It wasn't quite two years - and I'm not sure exactly when it all came together for him either. But it is just such a wonderful feeling!

And last night... Chumley usurped one of Shelly's spots for a little while. He walked right up to me in bed and laid down right up next to my chest/shoulder, and rumbled while I brushed his cheeks!!!!!!!!!! I'm glad he didn't stay long, because the last thing we need is Shelly feeling displaced again. But it was SO nice for me - and I think Chum too.

Aw, bless his heart. I have to tell you that your sig of Chumley makes me smile every time I see it. I think that boy is the sweetest furkid and I love, love, love those cheeks of his. He looks like such a loverboy.

He does have the SWEETEST disposition. He loves the other kitties, but leaves the ones alone that want to be left alone. He LOVES to play and it is hysterical to watch this chunky ol' tom cat body run around like a little kitty, chasing his tail and bunny-kicking the wand toys (he does need moving toys). He still gets a look of... "what's going on" at times - but is just so... mellow!

Gary says he'll be a lover-boy on par with Spooky but without the "neediness." He's always right about these things!