Riley - the cat who came to stay

For those of you who follow my blog (thank you) you will have read about our efforts to re-home a cat named Riley, who spent his days mooching around a Sussex village, abandoned, homeless, exposed to inclement weather, fed by a few - occasionally - but very much left to his own devices. My wife Ros and I first encountered Riley when we were holidaying in this remote village. He came to visit us frequently for food. We learned from various 'locals' of his predicament and made a promise that, if no-one would offer him a home - we would. And we did. 52 days ago to be exact. Before the weather here got really bad. Which it has. Occasional sub-zero temperatures already.

Introducing Riley at home has not been easy. We have two residents - Bertie, who is 14½ years old and Oliver who is 13½ years old. Our home is their castle. Intruders not allowed. So, here comes Riley...

And he has lived with us now for 52 days. And he has put on about 2 kilos because he eats like a horse and has bloomed into a very handsome lad, who has a wonderful temperament and tries so hard to avoid spats with Bertie, who as alpha male still treats Riley as an 'intruder'. Oliver, on the other hand, thinks Riley is 'OK' and will sit with him in front of the fire and even touch noses. Bertie's aggressive attitude has mellowed - somewhat - but I still need to keep a watch on him. But things are getting better. For those of you who know animals, as we do, constant love and affection will win through, eventually! Things have mellowed, 'spats' are now infrequent, tolerance is improving, albeit with a level of reluctance - (Bertie?!!) and Christmas is coming.

Riley is now a permanent member of our family. The 'harsh' coat he had when he came to us has blossomed into a soft, silky texture. He has filled out, not only in size but in spirit. He will chase Oliver in play and screech to a halt if he meets Bertie.  They will spit at each other and then slink away. And there is plenty of room to do that. It IS getting better.

Our reward, for Ros and me, is to see a cat who had been abandoned to wander around a village without knowing any real affection, to have captured our hearts. He has become a gentle giant in more ways than one and he is about to enjoy his first Christmas with folk who love him to bits. So, Bertie and Oliver - it's all about sharing, particularly when it comes to Christmas dinner!