Monday 20 April 2015

My Studio Assistant


Dear Departed Katie and Topsy
Until last August, I had been without a pet since my last cat passed away 5 years ago, I was so bereft that I felt I couldn't go through the end of a pet's life ever again.  Anyway, my asthma had greatly improved since no longer owning a cat.

But, things change, I was introduced to a lovely cat that a neighbour of mine has, I looked after him in my own home while she had some plumbing work done and he was such wonderful company!  He was affectionate, outgoing, playful and even slept under the covers in bed with me.  He has the softest fur you can imagine and, the odd thing, it is curly!

It turns out that this cat is a breed called Devon Rex and his behaviour is very typical.  They are very human-centred, playful, intelligent, great climbers, eager to be part of whatever activity is going on.  In a way, their traits remind me more of dogs.

They look very beautiful, they have slender bodies with long legs, pretty triangular faces and huge ears and of course, this amazing curly coat.  Oh and this coat doesn't affect my asthma!

Anyway, my neighbour invited me to visit a friend of hers who breeds Devons as she had a litter of kittens who needed socialising before they were rehomed.  This breeder is a wonderful lady and cares very much for her animals.  She has many retired older cats who she is caring for in their dotage and she very carefully selects healthy traits and colours when she decides to breed a new litter.

Devon Rex Kittens
The kittens are adorable!  They have very little in the way of coat, almost bald and their ears seem even bigger on their heads, making them seem alien-like.  Of course I put my name down for a kitten (need you ask?)!

A week before the kitten was to take up residence with me, I got a phone call from the breeder.  There was an 8yr old Devon Rex at the local cat rescue centre and would I please adopt her instead of the kitten? 

My Studio Assistant, D'arcy
And that is how D'arcy came into my life - it was love at first sight, she loved me and I loved her and we have been inseparable since.  She now comes and sleeps in the studio with me, or sometimes she sits on my shoulder and lets me know what she thinks about my work. 

17 comments:

Chris Lally said...

Oh, what a heartwarming story, Rolina! I knew you were in trouble when you met your neighbor's cat. So what does D'arcy think of your work?

Rolina said...

Thanks Chris, she makes encouraging "meep" noises. Well, I think they are encouraging!

stapeliad said...

I think she is just the prettiest kitty cat EVER. Sshhhh...dont tell my cats that.... I'm so glad you have a kitty friend again.

It took me a long time to get over losing my Sigynn-kitty, but I would still rather have kitties around. <3 <3

Rolina said...

Thanks Jessica, she is pretty and so sweet on the inside too.

I am glad you have kitties around, they are great company!

Jennifer Rose said...

always wanted this breed of cat, they are so neat looking, and the hair is a big plus for me

and thank you for adoptoing an older cat, they get passed over so often :/

Darcy is very pretty, striking eyes

Linda said...

Dear Rolina,

This is a story that touches my heart deeply, as I have had cats pretty much all my life and each one has been very special to me. D'Arcy is beautiful, and I am so glad that you have a 4 footed assistant...and I am certain therapist as well. I find a cat's purr is so soothing and comforting, very relaxing. I am so happy for you, and thank you so much for sharing this, you have made my day! :)

Rolina said...

Thanks Jennifer, yes her age was going against her at the shelter and I am very glad to take on an older cat - I can get my kitten fix elsewhere!

Thanks Linda, yes she is a very good therapist, indeed. If I am feeling down or anxious, she sits on me until I feel better.

carol edan said...

What a lovely story and beautiful cat!!!

Rolina said...

Thanks Carol, I feel so very lucky to have her in my life!

http://cagleyart.blogspot.com/ said...

Rolina,

Looks like you have a great assistant! Congratulations!

Angeline said...

Simon, who shares his home with us, is my first cat, EVER, at MY home.

Simon follows me and is mostly a room cat. He loves being in the same room as his humans...not necessarily touching or wanting touch, but in the same space. He loves listening to us and watching us.

I totally understand about missing Katie & Topsy...and having asthma (allergies, here!)...and needing a break.

Simon is Abyssinian, and his short fur and exotic tiger look doesn't disturb my allergies at all! Simon is now about 13 years old.

D'arcy is beautiful...both of you are so lucky you found each other!

Rolina said...

Thanks Connie, yes she has brought so much joy into my life.

Angeline-Marie, Simon sounds lovely, Abyssinians are a wonderful breed, I used to live next door to some and they were very inquisitive and intelligent - the female could open my refrigerator and steal tuna, lol!

Sheila said...

So happy for you Rolina. I too lost my cat about five years ago. She had been with me for 21 years, and I was heartbroken. I am not able to have another pet where I live now, and I shouldn't have a cat because of allergies... but I miss that companionship. Love hearing that a wonderful animal found a loving home. :)

Rolina said...

Aw, I am so sorry, Sheila, it is so hard when they pass away, they really do become an important part of the family.

Maybe you too, in time, will have the accommodation suitable and can try one of these "hypoallergenic" breeds.

kaslkaos said...

Oh my gosh, Darcy is soooo beautiful. Wonderful that you adopted him, the best of both worlds, the purebred you desired and rescue that needed you. He's gorgeous.

Kelly Dombrowski said...

I love cars! Alas my family does not so I have a large dog instead who keeps me company and likes to be under or on my feet! I don't know what I'll do when he is gone, he is a lot of work. Studio pets are so wonderful!

Rolina said...

Thanks so much Ingrid and Kelly! Our pets are so much an important part of our lives.