Sierra's Story, by Kathy Wilson

Eight years old and suddenly homeless… that was Sierra’s story when her family moved to Portugal and had to leave her behind. 

A series of foster families took her in and she tried to adapt to new houses, other animals, and new people, but nothing ever felt like home. Increasingly stressed, she developed a chronic itch and started over-grooming, which caused hair loss and large bald spots throughout her coat. Always in fight or flight mode and shutting down, she had become a pretty sad and depressed little cat.

Home at Last

In April 2024, her story took a definite turn for the better. By some miracle, she landed the perfect “forever home” — one adult (me), a peaceful house all to herself, lots of potential napping spots, and a backyard to explore. It was absolute cat heaven and she seemed to know it right away. Despite all of her recent challenges, she didn’t run and hide under a bed or disappear for days as cats usually do. She walked right up and started rubbing against my leg, purring loudly and acting as if this had been her home all along. The best relationships are all about trust and for some reason that only she knew, Sierra trusted me from day one. I am clearly “her person.”

How Did You Get So Spoiled

Roll the clock ahead 12 months and Sierra is living the good life. Her hair has grown back and all of her beautiful calico colors are on full display. She is the gentlest, fluffiest, and most affectionate little companion, giving me head bumps and cat kisses as she goes about her day. And she talks to me all the time, letting me know what she wants (food, door, lap …) and when she wants it (now). She also lets me give her loud kisses on the top of her head without complaint.

A Very Happy Ending

I’ve always thought the right cat will find you, and clearly Sierra and I were meant to be together. I love her cute little face, her beautiful green eyes, and her loving spirit. She makes me laugh, while I make sure she is happy, well fed, and safe. And of course she has trained me well, as all cats seem to know how to do. I often ask her, “How did we get so lucky to find each other?” After a happy chirp, she just blinks at me, gives me a gentle lick, and goes back to sleep.