HouseOfPurrfection

The HOP is two years old today! It’s incredible that I’ve been writing about my cats since January 2007. I’ve enjoyed blogging, and it’s remained new and fresh and exciting for me everyday. Of course, the cats are to be credited with this because they make everyday exciting and give me endless ideas for my posts.

I hope that it’s also been exciting and fun for you as you’ve read what it’s like living in a multi-cat household of indoor cats. Cats are an endless source of entertainment and joy, and it’s been my goal to share these adventures with you.

Having said all that, when living with cats, life doesn’t change all that much since they don’t like change in their environment and life. While living in a multi-cat household is great, albeit in a sometimes pulse-pounding way, it’s most often business as usual. And, as I’ve mentioned before, I’m happy with that reality. However, the HOP has experienced a couple of life-altering changes this past year. First, we suffered the losses of Onni and Ariel. And then, we adopted three kittens in May. While we’re never looking to add to our cat collection, I just couldn’t say no to these three. The person who rescued the three survivors had no idea how to care for them, so when I heard that, I decided to help.

The cats, as well as Mom and I, have weathered these experiences together this year. Not only did we grieve, but the cats did as well. It was incredible to witness the change in the cat’s moods as they became very sullen and quiet after Onni and Ariel’s deaths. Again, such a drastic change made our cats uneasy. Since then they have had to adjust to a new social structure.

Then, more changes were in store for the cats as we introduced the three kittens to the main clowder. Watching them interact with the adult cats has been a joy. And, despite the upheavals, the cats are doing well. Watching them adjust, compromise, and adapt to the new situations has made me proud of them.

Experiencing this cycle of life this year has made me appreciate my cats even more. Of course, I wish they could live forever, but they’re comparatively short lives have taught me to appreciate life and to enjoy each moment together. It’s a big responsibility snuggling and loving each cat everyday, and it’s one I can’t get enough of and one which will leave me with comforting and precious memories.

I look forward to 2009 and the memories that I’ll have of the daily antics of my cats.