A cat showed up shy and hungry, but kept coming back to the person who was kind to him. Eventually, he let his true self shine.
OliveKelsey @pennyandthefosters
Kelsey has been caring for community cats in Indianapolis with support from other volunteers, ensuring the cats are fed, vetted, and spayed or neutered.
About a year ago, a long-haired black cat appeared in a colony, timid and hungry. "He just blended in with the existing cats, but you could tell he was not part of their group," Kelsey told Love Meow.
For a while, he remained elusive and wary of people. But as the months passed, his behavior around Kelsey began to change.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
He slowly warmed up to his caretaker, allowed her to approach, and eventually accepted gentle pets. "I was so excited because none of the other cats are social (and that's okay), but it was fun to have a new friend."
Then, without warning, he vanished. At each feeding time, Kelsey searched for that familiar fluffy silhouette, but he was nowhere to be found.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
Nearly four months later, he finally returned, and this time, he stayed, never missing a meal again. "He came back every day, rain, snow, or shine, rubbed all over me, and impatiently waited for his kibble to be put out."
Once he let his guard down, he lunged for pets like a dolphin coming up for air. He melted in Kelsey's arms as she held him and named him Olive.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
As winter settled in and flurries filled the air, Kelsey noticed Olive's fur becoming matted again. She knew she couldn't leave him outside any longer. "I made the decision that he would be a good candidate to be brought indoors."
"I have an unused room that normally houses kittens that would be perfect for him."
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
At first, Olive wasn't thrilled with the change. He hissed, spat, and protested loudly as he was brought inside in a carrier, away from the frozen ground he'd known. He hid under a bed for nearly six hours before realizing he was safe.
"He came out and acted like he always did with me, rubbing on me, accepting pets, and rolling over to let me pet his belly."
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
Before long, Olive claimed his spot on the couch, curling into Kelsey's lap as if he'd done it his whole life. His paws kneaded away like he was making biscuits while he leaned into his human, completely at ease. "He loves lounging and being close. He's adjusting to the household noises he hears."
Olive gazes up at Kelsey with his soulful eyes filled with love, basking in the companionship he always wanted.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
Once his walls came down, Olive allowed Kelsey to trim his nails and brush his fluffy coat. After a vet visit, he was freed from all the mats and knots. It turned out he had battle scars all over his body, but thankfully, those outdoor days are behind him.
Olive now spends ample time snuggling with Kelsey, resting his head on her arm as if it's the safest place he's ever known.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
He is getting used to the pitter-patter of the resident dogs and cats and doesn't mind the curious nose sniffing through a crack in the door. "We're taking a very slow approach (introducing them) to make sure it's done right."
No more roaming the streets or braving another winter outside. Olive is thriving indoors, surrounded by a family he trusts.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
When Kelsey isn't nearby, he watches his favorite shows on the big screen from the comfort of his couch.
Once a timid stray trying to survive, Olive is now living the dream as a pampered house cat, and he's never looking back.
Kelsey @pennyandthefosters
Share this story with your friends. More on Olive and Kelsey's fosters on Instagram @pennyandthefosters.
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