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A friend of mine returned to his home country and needed to rehome his two elderly female cats before he left. There was no decision to make; I always knew I’d end up with them.

They arrived the Friday before I left for Campeche, horrible timing, but there was nothing to be done about it. They spent the first week in their own room, and then I introduced them to Alma when I returned. She is happy to have them here, frequently seeking them out and chirping at them to come explore the house, but they are traumatised and not yet ready to come out. These things take time and patience and a willingness to work with the cat’s schedule. Just look at how far Alma has come, from a truly feral being to the affectionate cuddlebug she’s been since I got home!

My first new addition is Dodger. She’s probably 12 years old. While still very hostile, she does hang out in the open in her room and even ventured out into the guest room yesterday, hanging out under the bed. She always used to come cuddle with me when I visited my friend, so I’m optimistic that she’ll settle in.

Then, there is Xtiga (Ish-tee-ga). Today was the first time I got a halfway decent photo of her. She’s about 15 and was very much a daddy’s girl, so she’s struggling with her new situation and is still hiding.

Both girls are eating well and using their litter boxes, so I’m not worried about them. Again, time and patience will work wonders. That Alma has accepted them bodes well.

Speaking of Alma:

I was worried that she’d forget about me during my trip, but nope, I’ve come home to find her even more affectionate. It’s good to be missed!

Three cats at once is a lot — I’ve never had more than two — but I’m glad Dodgy and Ishy are here and arrived before I was too settled into a routine with Alma, so I can merge their habits and routines.