Hi Everyone! My name is Eileen, and ten days ago I adopted one of the "least adoptable" cats that my local shelter had: 8 years old, one eye recently removed, partial vision in her other eye, FIV+, partially deaf, AND black fur. My first couple of days with "Palina" were rough, and I secretly doubted my decision. But, we've made a lot of progress since, and I ADORE her! She's still very easily startled (which will likely be the case, due to her vision and hearing), but she's worked up the nerve to remain "unhidden" most of the day, and will sleep on my couch and bed while I'm there...although she keeps a safe distance. Over the next several weeks (months?), I hope to help her settle in more, and MAYBE even tolerate some physical contact (rather than her current one-pat-per-day routine)!   I would appreciate any and all advice on how to give her an enjoyable life, in light of her vision and hearing loss. We both thank you!        

Welcome!

Sounds like you are doing a great job, so far! It will take time for your kitty to get used to her new home and surroundings. It can take months for her to get used to you and this is where patience comes in!

Also, thank you for adopting an older, special needs cat!

I adopted a cat that a shelter told me was hearing impaired.. but turns out she wasn't. I wasn't too happy as I really wanted a deaf cat and I felt misled by the shelter. But it's ok, I still love her!

Thank you for the support! 

First of all welcome to the site and a huge thank you for taking in a special needs fur baby   They need just as much love but are so often looked over.

We have several special needs cats one of which is mostly blind also.  He had injuries to his eyes as a kitten so this is all he's ever really known.  He gets around just as well as the other babies but stays really close to home.

I wish you much luck with her and just keep trying and she will get comfortable in her new surroundings and with you.  Just give her time and just sit and let her come to you.  She will develop that trust in time.

my fur babies and I are sending you and Palina lots of wonderful vibes!

Welcome!

Thank you for adopting this special needs girl. Sounds like you are already doing a good job with her. My friend adopted a blind kitty and after he settled in and learned his way around you never would have know he was blind.

Bless you for taking in a special needs cat.  Welcome to TCS! 

Your post brought tears to my eyes. You Angel! I look forward to following you and Palina as you learn about one another and build that special bond.

Thank you all! Palina has come along nicely in her first two weeks, and seems "comfortable" in her new home. Although she has limited sight and hearing, she definitely enjoys sitting on the living room windowsill (perhaps enjoying the breeze and scents from the trees outside). Her appetite and sleep have improved, and she allows me to pet her longer- all encouraging signs.    

I'm so happy for the two of you    It looks like she has found her forever home with such a loving person.  You will be blessed for taking her in and most likely she will be the blessing to you.

I have such happy tears right now.  I would love to see some pics of her!  Keep us informed as to how she's doing and post pics when you can.    furry vibes to you both

Hi and welcome to TCS!
You are such an Angel... Palina is a lucky kitty to have found such a caring soul :rub:
I am sure as she gets comfortable, your bond will come to be a very strong and special one!
THANK YOU for adopting this little one....