Feral Paws Rescue: Mia

Nov 9, 2024 | 2024 Articles, Animal Rescue Adventures, Feral Paws Rescue, Pets

by Paula Hunsacker

Mia came to our rescue two years ago from CSSPCA Fresno. She was so feral, hissing and striking at you for no reason. We tried feeding her in our large walk-in feral kennel, but Mia didn’t get along with cats that got in her personal space. So we released her at the rescue where she was able to roam the rescue grounds safely and have her space. As she roamed, we tried to make friends with her, but she didn’t want human contact. She hissed at us as we approached her. So we just gave her space.

Mia

Then one day last summer, Mia wandered up to the main house at the rescue and came inside. That was pretty nerve wracking––Mia inside the house, feral, and not liking other cats. Of course, she hid in the house, came out to eat, and hid again. Her favorite spot to hide was the hallway closet. Then, when she was ready, she would run back outside. This went on for months.

Then one summer day, when I was sitting outside in a chair, Mia jumped on my lap. As long as I didn’t touch her, everything was fine. If I tried to touch her, she would hiss at me and run off. She sat back and watched us with other free-roaming cats. When she jumped in my lap, I offered her treats. She grabbed them and ran off. Then one day, months later, Mia jumped on my lap and let me touch her and didn’t hiss. This went on for almost two years. Then she let me pick her up. She hissed but wasn’t aggressive. Now every evening Mia runs through the door and jumps on the couch next to me. She still doesn’t want other cats in her personal space. She lies next to me and sleeps. In the morning, she runs back outside.

Mia isn’t adoptable to the public due to her personality, demeanor, and aggressiveness. She is about seven years old per our rescue vet.

It is frustrating that shelters and the public believe feral cats are all ready to rip you open. We have dealt for over 20 years with feral cats. When you take time, you can win a feral cat over–to a point. It is sad that people do not understand feral cats. They only need love, time, and patience.

All creatures, animals and humans, just need to know we are loved in a special way. Feral cats are very loving and grateful when they find that special someone who truly cares about them. I personally find feral cats to be amazing pets who are forever grateful they are loved.

EMAIL: fprg.org@gmail[dot]com
Phone: 559-412-7226

Check out more animal rescue stories in our Pet Perspective section & watch for more stories from Feral Paws every month, and we would love to have you join our KRL Pets Facebook group. Advertise in KRL and 10% of your advertising fees can go to Feral Paws.