The author has a long history with barn cats, having fed them and their raccoon visitors, and has adopted many kittens. The current cats are the second generation of a group that appeared on the family property. However, the author found themselves unable to keep a kitten this time. A small kitten was abandoned at a horse stable where the author volunteers. While gathering hay bales, they discovered the kitten in a feed bin, trembling and mewing. The kitten followed them until a guard dog chased her away. The author then returned home to fetch a carrier and some food. The kitten was more interested in being coaxed out than in the food.
Afterward, the kitten, named Nutmeg, found a home in the author’s bathroom. The first time the author entered, the kitten was hidden away, but after that, she would greet them with meows and weave around their feet. Nutmeg was very affectionate, often rubbing against the author’s ankles as they moved. She would knead while eating and was quite vocal. Unfortunately, the author could not keep a fourth cat due to already having three older cats, one of which had recently been diagnosed with diabetes. This made it difficult for the author to cover the costs needed for Nutmeg’s care.
The author began contacting animal control, shelters, and rescue organizations to find help for Nutmeg. A family friend met the kitten and quickly became fond of her. After discussing it with their family, the friend returned with disappointing news that they could not take Nutmeg. The author offered the friend a moment to say goodbye, without any hidden agenda. When the friend returned, they shared that they would indeed take Nutmeg home. The author said their farewells and received plenty of purring in return.
Nutmeg’s new owner is providing updates, including that she has seen a vet and is receiving treatment for her upper respiratory infection. Nutmeg will have two feline friends to play with, including one kitten that is about her age, around 7-8 months. While the author is glad to have their bathroom back and not have a kitten underfoot, they feel happy to have played a part in Nutmeg’s journey to her forever home. What do you think about this story?
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Reddit source: Reddit, shared by u//u/HauntThisHouse