The first time I walked into my neighbor's office and was greeted by the funny little brown tabby and white kitten with the kinky hair, I was hooked. Her big eyes shone brightly and she was so full of sweet mischief. That was my introduction to American Wirehairs.
Months later, I was catsitting and noticed Harriet, who was due to deliver her first litter, was having difficulties and in danger of losing the pregnancy. She made it a few more days (and two vet trips) and delivered two beautiful baby girls, Sheba and Brillo, via C-section. There had also been one deceased kitten, which was the cause of the problems in the pregnancy.
Six months later, Sheba, who was born with straight hair, was in my home--my own little bit of Harriet. Ten months later, Harriet again delivered a litter--two little boys. One passed a few days later and the other ended up being my Ziggy. Harriet was then spayed and a few months later moved out of state to enjoy her retirement/forever home. A year and a half ago, Brillo completed her show career and also came to live with me, after I tragically lost Sheba at age 3, to cancer.
I was driving in Ft Worth the other day and got a text from my neighbor. She'd just learned that Harriet died in her sleep last weekend. She apparently had a heart defect that took her without warning. Harriet was just six years old.
RIP Sweet Little Harriet. I will never forget the "flying feats" you did; jumping from cat tree to shelves, etc. Thank you for giving me my three special kitties. I will remember you forever.
Harriet, 2006:
Months later, I was catsitting and noticed Harriet, who was due to deliver her first litter, was having difficulties and in danger of losing the pregnancy. She made it a few more days (and two vet trips) and delivered two beautiful baby girls, Sheba and Brillo, via C-section. There had also been one deceased kitten, which was the cause of the problems in the pregnancy.
Six months later, Sheba, who was born with straight hair, was in my home--my own little bit of Harriet. Ten months later, Harriet again delivered a litter--two little boys. One passed a few days later and the other ended up being my Ziggy. Harriet was then spayed and a few months later moved out of state to enjoy her retirement/forever home. A year and a half ago, Brillo completed her show career and also came to live with me, after I tragically lost Sheba at age 3, to cancer.
I was driving in Ft Worth the other day and got a text from my neighbor. She'd just learned that Harriet died in her sleep last weekend. She apparently had a heart defect that took her without warning. Harriet was just six years old.
RIP Sweet Little Harriet. I will never forget the "flying feats" you did; jumping from cat tree to shelves, etc. Thank you for giving me my three special kitties. I will remember you forever.
Harriet, 2006: