Lila lived next door with her human mom and 2 other cat siblings. She would visit my house on occasion, standing at my door and sharing treats with my cat. When my neighbor died in the house one summer, Lila was laying with her, not leaving her side. Homes were found for all the cats, but Lila somehow kept finding her way home. It took 3 months of bribing her with food from her vigil at the door of the empty house, but she finally made the move to my yard, but always returned "home" at some point, waiting by the door for her "mom" to come home. Then the house was sold and about a year after the death of my neighbor, she started calling my house home.
Still not trusting enough to come in, she became "mine" with a heated house and bed, in a protected area on my patio. After a year and half I was able to hold her and she would come to my call. It took two years to
make the full transition in and out of my house. Her strong loyalty was finally being transitioned to me!
Sadly, Lila died in my arms two months ago, purring for the first time. I never will forget how one petite little black cat taught me about how strong a cats love, loyalty and dedication can be to their family. I in return, gave her the same love and loyalty back, to earn her dedication. I miss you Lila!
Warren, OH
