Shawshank hissed and cowered from us for nearly two weeks. He was brave enough to sneak up to snag food from our hands but disappeared if we made any sudden movements. He played enthusiastically with his siblings if we sat very still and made no threatening movements, and every movement was threatening.
But once released from his quarantine, Shawshank finally realized his new life was only joy. He stopped running and hiding. Then he started approaching. This afternoon he followed me to the toilet-a favorite cuddle location for my pets-and DEMANDED to be picked up and loved.
I know I have more pictures of Shawshank... but I'm really struggling to identify him in them! His colors are so similar to sister Eyrie, and I didn't realize that closeups of his face were more tabby like his brothers than plan gray.
Update 11/8/20
For some time, Shawshank was the only kitten still growing and thriving. But his weight loss when he started losing was the most drastic, losing 5oz in 5 days and plummeting from the fattest kitten to one of the smallest. But he also recovered the fastest... packing in 4oz in a SINGLE DAY.
Shawshank doesn't like to be approached and will often run if you walk towards him. But he does like to interact and will come creeping up to you if you are still. I'm hoping he'll lose his last traces of nerves once I get them healthy and can start offering some treats now and then... as he is the most food motivated of the crew.
Update 11/28/2020
Unlike sister Kyln, who didn't care about wearing dragon wings as long as you still pet her, fed her, and told her she was adorable... Shawshank was completely disenchanted with his elf costume. It's possible it's because it was designed for a lizard- the hat didn't fit and... being over a pound bigger than his sister- it just didn't fit as well. Whatever the reason, he flopped over on his side and refused to move until it was removed.
He forgave me though. Not 5 minutes ago, he crawled into my lap and perched there while I blogged until my aching abdomen made me shift to much for his comfort.
He's the most independent of his litter, completely at ease on his own. But he managed to charm my Toasty Marshmallow boy- who normally avoids or ignores the kittens completely.
But Shawshank is partial to little sister Kyln, particularly when she's with Mama Pigwidgeon. He'll wait until Kyln and Pig are settled, then slowly creep in, almost always putting a protective paw over the runt, glaring at me if I take too many pictures while they're trying to get their cat naps in.
Shawshank was second to last for his photoshoot and would not stay put- no interest in the feather wand could keep him behind bars. But, except for the weeks the entire litter lost weight, he has never refused a treat and I couldn't stop taking pictures, trying to capture him mid slurp. I am infatuated with pictures of kittens with their tongues out!
I was completely thrilled to capture his expression in his mugshot photo. His prison ID was the easiest of the 5, by far. And his "crime" was ridiculously easy to identify. I actually started with his- and only my inner giggle kept me going- as I hit a wall trying to think of "crimes" for his siblings (besides Kyln, who was also easy to describe). Shawshank loves his food- whether regular kibble or treats- and he will step right over anyone or anything that gets in his way!
12/8/20
Shawshank charmed a family of 4... I think I knew they were taking him home before they knew it- they couldn't see their own expressions when they held him for the first time. They liked every kitten they met- but there was a definite soft melting in their eyes and hearts with him.
They reached out via email to let me know that the newly named Cooper is doing well and loved by his human family. His new kitten sibling is following him from a distance, hissing, but not aggressive. They're sure they'll be friends soon and have promised pictures!! Can't wait!
12/24/20
Happy Holidays to me!! Cooper's family sent photos and an update. Cooper is getting used to living the life of luxury, lounging in front of the fireplace with sister Rosie. Though Rosie is 7 months old, 4 month Cooper nearly matches her in size. Cooper is also warming up to being around his family more and being held more. He is so lucky to have a family that is letting him get comfortable at his own pace!
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