Merlin

We have had a smashing letter from our lovely Merlin which we have just got to share with you all!

Hello Aunty Margaret and the Valley View  Cattery,

Thought you might like to know how I’m getting on. My Mum thinks I am very clever because I quickly learnt my new name and to come in when I’m called. I love being brushed and obligingly roll over when the other side needs grooming.

Of course everything was very strange at first and all my family could see were my startled, enormous yellow eyes peering out from behind furniture. I have carefully rubbed against absolutely everything I possibly could but still avoid the hoover, dogs barking, loud music and the postman.

I have a best friend who lives next door and we go mouse hunting together in the woods or ‘help’ Mum down the garden. There, like at most busy times, I am quite chatty. I find the pheasants fascinating although the squirrels are too fast for me.
The resident cat here spent the first few months hissing at me for some reason. Last week she hit me and I was most surprised so I’ve stopped trying to pinch her food. Apparently everyone else was surprised too because she is half my size.

I had to have a personal larger cat flap fitted but find that miaowing saves me the trouble as my Dad sensibly recognises that I either want to go out or to eat. He didn’t seem to appreciate my voice when I first arrived probably because I was extremely vocal in the early hours but now I wait longer for him right outside the bedroom door and show him how delighted I am to see him by rolling around the landing so he has to step over me or weaving through his legs to trip him up. Such fun!
Do you remember the toy Christmas tree which I came here with? I still have it ! Now I have my own basket with balls and also various stuffed mice which I like to leave on the stairs for people to step on. Somehow these seem to be more acceptable than the live versions which I bring into the conservatory.

Well I hope you all have a Happy Christmas and a good 2015 homing all the other cats that are fortunate to be homed by you.
Love from Merlin

p.s Just had to send you a photo of me surveying my estate. Aren’t I a handsome chap!!
p.p.s. Mum thinks she has taught me to “sit” when asked but I would do anything for a biscuit….