Caring for Andy

tams babies

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At the end of May we lost our beloved cat of just over a year, Boogie. She was a stray I coaxed with dog food to come to me, (it's all I had at that time). She took to us and we to her immediately. Unfortunately she  was hit by a car and killed. (indoor cats only for me now). It just destroyed me. I had seen a smaller orange tabby poke his head out from underneath our shed and wander out in the yard every once in a while for about 2 weeks prior, and didn't know who or if  he belonged to anyone. The older ladies behind us told me they had taken him because of a friend having to move off her farm. He was basically a spayed barn cat, not feral, but not exactly social. He was sick and needed medication, and they just couldn't afford to take him to the vet. He started to poke his head out  when he would hear me outside and  eventually started following me around the yard. I asked if they would mind if I fed him, and that lead to me being able to pet him more and more. I just couldn't stand to see him outside, so weak, frail, and so ill. When my husband and son asked them about our adopting him they were so happy he would have a good home. He was in such bad shape I didn't know if he would live the weekend before we could get him to the vet. (we couldn't bring him in due to having other animals until we knew he wasn't contagious). Putting him in the carrier was fun but we finally got him in, no one got hurt, and off to the vet we went. He had an upper respiratory infection, and yeast infection in his ears so bad they were black inside, thankfully no ear mites so he could come in, just seperated from the dogs. We made our dining room "Andy's space" to heal and adjust. We made sure to make his space his by keeping the doors shut and putting a blanket on the french doors so he couldn't see, just hear the dogs,get a cat tree, toys, food,( can and dry), treats, and litter box. The first few days were spent trying to coax him out to give him his medicine. wrapping a towel tight enough around him that he couldn't use his claws,our vet calls this a cat burrito. He HATED this but it all worked. We just had out second vet visit where he got the thumbs up and could be vaccinated and given medication for worms. The blanket has come down so he and our dogs can see but not touch to adjust to each other better before he's introduced to the house. His orange color is so much brighter, and he eats so good now, he's gained 2 pounds. He waits for me to come in to get his brushing and daily loves. We're not where we need to be but we're definately getting there, slowly, at his pace. I miss Boogie with all my heart, but truely believe Andy was sent to us for a reason, I needed him as much as he needed me!
 

tobilei

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Aww I'm so glad Andy found you (and you found him!). I hope he brings you many many years of love and happiness. Good luck with the transition to permanent member of the household and welcome to TCS :)
 

margd

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What a wonderful story. 
 It is really astonishing how a cat will appear just when we need one the most.  I'm so glad that Andy found you when he did - you saved his life and gave him a wonderful home. We would love to see photos of this dear boy, when you get the chance.  I'm very sorry to hear about Boogie but am happy that she sent this little guy to you.  
 

di and bob

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Thank you for telling us about Boogie and Andy (I just LOVE that name!) You made both of their lives so much better by opening your heart. Boogie is at peace knowing she was loved and will never be forgotten, and Andy is beginning a life of love and in a wonderful home, he is so grateful and happy now, even if he isn't quite sure what is happening! I'll pray for sweet Boogie and for Andy to be happy with his new forever family, you will be blessed for your kindness and for opening your heart.  Let Andy distract you from the pain of a broken heart, he will help to heal you and will be a welcome addition to your family. All the luck in the future, and may Boogie look down upon you and be happy you are passing on her legacy of love as she would want for those she loved so much.  
 

hellomisskitty

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Welcome to both you and Andy!! I love the title of your thread "Caring for Andy": loving and caring for Andy will help you navigate your grief of your loss of your dear Boogie. I definitely think she had a paw in Andy making his way to you. She knows what amazing guardians you are and knew that Andy needed protection, care and love. Caring for sweet Andy is an exceptional way to honor Boogie. Thank you for sharing both of them with us [emoji]10084[/emoji]️
 

margd

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These are terrific photos of Boogie and Andy.  Both of them look like such sweethearts. 
 
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tams babies

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Thank you everyone for welcoming us to the community and all the kind words. It's great to be here!
 

piano cat

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Our Andy is also a former Feral, born wild to a Mom who was dumped.  So your title alone, with the same name, pulled me in to read.  Thank heavens for you and the ladies behind you.  Your Andy is lovely and so lucky you intervened in his life. Wishing you a long, healthy life together.   :)
 
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