The Cat and the Christmas Tree

I remember reading something that said when you adopt a dog or a cat, it could take a few months before some aspects of their personality surface. Guess they need time to adjust to the new surroundings and, when they start to feel really safe and comfortable, then they may start doing some different things. 

If that’s true, then we may be in that stage with Tigger the former stray cat. We’ve always had dogs so cat behavior is somewhat new to us. I had cats growing up but I guess I didn’t pay that much attention. Can’t tell you how many searches I’ve done starting with “why does my cat …”

I think he’s bonded stronger with me. I’m guessing that’s because I was the first to bring him food when he was still living outside. Plus, I spent time each day going out to pet him and spend time with him. So he does like to spend time with me – even when it is just sleeping at my feet while I’m on the computer. Or sleeping on the slippers I wear around the house but sometimes take off while sitting here.

Yes – that was one of my searches. I mean why would he want to sleep on my slippers when that doesn’t look comfortable. I do wonder if the answers we get are really just kind of made up. We really can’t talk to the cats to figure out why they do certain things so how do these “experts” really know why cats do certain things. 

Anyway, he has become more comfortable exploring parts of the house that we aren’t in. The other day, he managed to get on top of our kitchen cabinets (its a long story but there were jumping opportunities from above). Then, he realized that the last jump down was too much and he couldn’t get back up to where he started so we had to get a little step stool and get him down.

And now I’ve realized I’m rambled on and haven’t even talked about the title of this post. Under the Christmas tree is one of his favorite places to nap. Plus, he loves to get under the tree while playing and then run out to jump at the laser pointer or whatever other toy we have. He hasn’t turned any of the ornaments into toys which is a good thing but he does knock little pieces off the tree from time to time.

Given that it is a real tree and near the end of its life, there will be a day very soon when the tree goes away. Should be interesting to see his reaction.

Overall, he’s a good cat. Still wonder why he ended up outside but I guess he knew the right house to come to.