Mattie (Matilda) was born to Lucy (listed on the Meet Our Cats page). Mattie was the most feral of the first litter that Lucy brought to us. I (Kay) am the only member of the family that can really interact with her, and our contact is very limited. To this day she retains feral cat characteristics, even though she is predominately an indoor cat.

Mattie never willingly approaches me (or anyone) for loving or affection, though she does rub any walls or surfaces nearby, which indicates that she is needing something. Sometimes I sneak up on her and give her some rubs and scratches, but it will not be long before she finds a way to politely leave my touch.

It has been weird to watch, but Mattie has fixated on Septimus (the alpha male in our home). She is constantly rubbing against him and seeking his attention. Both of these animals are ‘fixed’ so this is not a mating ritual. It is a bonding ritual. Septimus endures the bonding and reciprocates when Mattie approaches him, but he never initiates them himself. Such a weird dynamic!

Mattie has not been listed on the Meet our Cats page simply due to the fact that she does not bond with humans. She is NOT ideal as an outdoor cat. Her fears seem to make her more comfortable inside. She simply wants to exist and be left alone.

We would entertain inquiries asking to rehome Mattie. But I truly have my doubts that, at this point, she could readjust to a situation that does not include Septimus. And…. unfortunately, Septimus is not up for rehoming. So, I guess we are stuck with Mattie (or she is stuck with us) which I absolutely do not mind. She is adorable, undemanding, and does not have any special needs. If she trusts us to want to stay here, we will do our best to provide for her.

Mattie