I Love Calicos

by Hilary
(Battle Creek,MI)

There has been a calico theme in my life since I was 12 years old. It all started with a special cat named Princess,who found her way into my heart the Summer after my mother passed away. I was very withdrawn,and didn't talk to many people. I needed a friend who would just listen.

I was visiting my aunt's house in the country that Summer,when she told me about a litter of kittens that had been dropped on the side of the road near her house. She had been feeding them all on the back porch,with the exception of a little Calico kitten,hiding in the bushes. She had been eating the tomatoes in the garden,and gnawing through the cantaloupes to get to the fruit inside. My aunt had been unable to catch her,or even get close. I sat down in the grass by the bushes,and called to the kitten. The little cat emerged cautiously,and climbed in my lap,on to my shoulder. I knew right then that I had a friend for life.

Princess had injuries to her leg and her neck,as if some animal had gotten a hold of her. She had maggots in the wounds,so we took her to the vet to get her wounds cleaned and stitched up. I cared for her every day,putting ointment on her injuries.She healed up very well,and she became my constant companion.

Princess is going on 16 years old this year. She still lives with my grandparents,who need her as much as I did back then. She is in perfect health,and I think she will live for a very long time. She is a survivor.

I have a Calico in my new home, named Topaz.She was also a rescue,who charmed my husband by sucking on his thumb the first time he picked her up and held her. She amuses me every day with her energy and affection. I think Calicoes will always be a part of my life,no matter where I go.