I was house-sitting for a staff member at a big cat sanctuary when I heard an odd noise just at dusk. I went out to investigate, and saw a a housecat headed straight for the leopard enclosure some yards away.
The leopard had a history of catching squirrels and birds, so I was very concerned for this domestic cat!
I knew calling her with fear in my voice would only drive her in the wrong direction, so I closed my eyes for a moment and then calmly called her over. Thankfully, the little cat changed directions and headed towards me. "Would you like something to eat?" I asked her. She came closer. I invited her to come into the screened porch, and she cautiously stepped in.
After I got her some food and setting up a litter box, she looked at me with the biggest eyes I've ever seen on a cat. I could see gratitude and hope in them.
A visit to the vet checked her as healthy. She was chipped, but the previous caretaker never responded to calls. The address listed on the chip was miles and miles away, so we thought perhaps she had been dropped off at the sanctuary.
7 years later, and Ginger is happy, healthy, and much loved. I am so grateful I heard that little odd noise that night . . . . .
PHOENIX, AZ
