It's Wally!

Wally is a late summer arrival from VOKRA (Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association).  He is a large tuxedo guy at the ripe age of 10 years.  His glorious black coat has random hairs of white, resembling snowflakes and big white feet to match.  Wally’s face has the typical street cat look of tomcat jowls, slightly tattered ears, scraggly whiskers, and scowling eyes.  No wonder he was a tough nut to crack.

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As an FIV cat, he was not an easy prospect for adoption, which is why he has come to us;  you will find him in the Val Jones area, off the front courtyard.  Initially, he wasn’t keen on any offerings from visitors.  If anything, he’d give you the side eye in return.  For a brief 2 weeks, he had some ear trouble and had to wear an e-collar.  It sure didn’t elevate his mood.  He spent the days lounging at the top of cat trees.  The best surprise was yet to come.  

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When temperatures dropped, he pulled a 180 - warming up to people and spawning quite a fan club by the end of October.  His popularity soared especially amongst the human females.  He’s not shy around strangers, either. Even the Val Jones Corner cats befriended him.  In fact, the only soul who doesn’t enjoy Wally’s company is Magnus.  Magnus just doesn’t like any cats.

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Wally soon took up the role of greeter cat.  First one to the gate means first one to get goodies!  After a human enters the gate, Wally would “happen to walk by” and meow out a “hello” in his raspy, soprano voice.  Unlike Pax who often sits upright like a statue to be admired, Wally would approach the visitor and expect treats or physical affection.  He’s open to being pet almost all over (the belly is 50/50), enjoys nearly any food, some brushing, and being told what a cool cat he is.  For catnip, he’s a muncher and a roller.  You’ll see him eating it.  Turn away for a second, and there’ll be green stuff all over him.  Toys are not really his thing, but you can try.  These days, his expectations are high.  Lavish him with gifts or he’ll go into a corner and mope.  And no, you can’t make him wait his turn.

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With the chilly air came a new heat lamp on the porch of one of the huts. Wally quickly took to the warm gift and was joined by several others.  The disinterested cats stuck to the heat panels in the huts.  Seeing Wally cuddled up with Jim and Frank became a common sight.  I’ve even found Frank giving Wally a meow-sage.  What a lucky cat!

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To be admired by cats is something many humans at the Sanctuary strive for.  For cats, to be admired by humans is a goal only for some and even less achievable by most.  Wally managed to achieve both within 2 months of arrival.  That is a monumental feat for any cat.  Here’s hoping Wally becomes a longtime resident, as I’m sure there are many people who would love to meet this whiskered wonder. 

Blog by Pauline Chin

Photos by Pauline Chin, Melanie Draper, Karen Nicholson