I thought you all might like an update on how Babe (as she is now called) is settling in. I wasn't sure about changing her name but as she didn't respond to either Mystery or Fattipuss, I decided to go for one I felt comfortable with. Do cats respond to their actual names or is it your tone of voice when you call them? I've found the best way of attracting attention is to spread my newspaper on the floor and begin to read. Cue for furry bottom to be planted right on the bit I'm reading. Failing that, open the fridge! Although, funnily enough, for a big cat, she's not very interested in food apart from her own rations. It's the first time I've ever been able to cook without having a cat throwing itself under my feet, giving an Oscar winning performance of pitiful starvation. I was most concerned about keeping her indoors but her previous owner assured me that Babe wasn't bothered about going out and so it has proved. I suspect that going out might involve making an effort, not her strong point. She is the world's most laid back, lazy cat. She's very friendly and affectionate, and greets visitors by giving them a good licking. It's a novelty to have a cat that actually likes visitors. All my previous mogs were full or cross Siamese, who reacted to the doorbell like a bankrupt when the bailiff arrives: hide under the bed until they've gone.
She's had her breakfast and her 'mad' half hour, when she races about the flat like a Tom and Jerry cartoon, and is settling down for a hard day's snoozing. She is the most delightful creature and I'm so glad that I found this lovely forum which led me to her. Thank you very much.
(Sorry, still no piccies!)