Here’s a wonderful update and tribute on wobbly Mink, who we adopted out in 2011 to longtime supporters and friends, Shirley L. and James C. of Portland, Oregon. Mink was the last of our disabled cats, and one of my favorite cats of all time, so saying goodbye to him was really emotional. (Please see that blog post on his adoption for a longer explanation.) But we knew he was going to the best possible home, and Shirley has sent us updates on Mink ever since. She recently’sent this one, along with that photo:
“As we approach our adoption date of Mink 4 years ago he continues to AMAZE?us! He turns 11 years old this month! He continues to be determined,?loving and sweet as can be and he leaves a mark on EVERYBODY who he?meets–truly!!! When people meet him they can’t stop talking about him and?will always ask us “How is Mink? or “Can we come over and visit Mink?”
We are convinced that Mink has way more than 9 lives. Not only does he have?Cerebellar Hypoplasia but he has had other issues too, but none of them has’stopped his incredibly loving nature and bravery! Within a year of our?adoption he had to have many of his teeth removed, the second year he?developed high blood pressure (which also effects a cat’s gait) which is not?typical in cats — the good news it has not affected his eyesight and it’s?controlled by medication in the morning and evening.
Due to his CH he has?lost a lot of muscle mass and falls a bit more but that never stops his?incredible spirit. For some reason in December of 2013 and again in May of’this year we almost lost him — it was so scary — but in typical Mink fashion?and a lot of TLC on our part and the vet’s — Mink bounced back and is as happy?as ever. He has also become quite demanding with a BIG MEOW (several if we?don’t act quick enough) when he wants us to pick him up.
We ADORE and LOVE Minkers soooooooooo much! Thank YOU for introducing him’to our family. Our lives have been enriched by Mink and his tenacity to?live life!!!”
Shirley and James, thank you!
It was so nice to hear about Mink and to find out he’s doing so well, despite all the issues he has faced. He’s a beautiful cat and you can tell he’s so loved. I think sometimes all the love that animals receive is a big part of what keeps them going. And he sounds like he is a very spoiled boy which is just the way it should be. Thank you Shirley and James for taking such good care of Mink.
That is a great picture – he looks so content and happy. I just lost my cat Rocky a few months ago and he looked just like Mink, same relaxed attitude. Glad he found such a wonderful home! Cats rule and dogs drool! 😉 Don’t tell my dog I wrote that!
That’s so amazing. What a beautiful kitty and so well loved! You can just tell that Mink returns that love and enriches the human lives around him. God Bless!
So glad Mink is in such a great home with oodles of love! Thanks Shirley and James for including him in your family!
What a wonderful update!!! I remember Mink & always thought he was so beautiful! I have a soft spot for black kitties!!! Thank you for giving him a second chance & finding his perfect forever home.
I LOVE Mink! He’s the best kitty ever! Shirley is exactly right when she says that Mink leaves a mark on everyone. He’s one special cat with such a big personality that you can’t help but fall in love with him.
I have the great honor of watching Mink and his furry friends for Shirley and James when they have to go out of town. Mink is such an amazing soul and a cuddle bug. I am so happy to have him in my life.
I am also a member of the Mink Fan Club. My Doberman also loves Mink and gives kisses and nibbles whenever she can. When we come over to visit, Mink wobbles over to say hello to Abby my Doberman and screams the whole way as if to say, “hey, wait for me!”
Sweetest cat ever!
I love seeing the updates of animals that have been adopted out. So glad to read that Mink is hanging in there!
Thanks for sharing this update! Mink looks very happy and contented.
The thing I love the most about Mink is how she gets along so well with all the other animals. She may have some natural issues getting around but that doesn’t deter her from getting what she wants, all the other animals are enablers 🙂
What a beautiful big boy, with a beautiful big heart.
This Mink spirit and strength shows me the amazing power of living a FULL life with the full menu of disabilities. When I look at his picture his eyes are telling me ‘ What , I have a full life and am so loved”.
I don’t have words to express how special this guy is. And how grateful we are to hear the story of his perseverance. In the every day life of bad news cycle, this guy is a triumph and a love. Thanks to all who helped him along his journey. Many healthy days to you and yours, Mink.
What a wonderful “and they lived happily ever after” story! Steve, the Shelter Challenge isn’t showing up on your post. But I went back and found it. 🙂
I remember when Shirley and James adopted sweet Mink. It’s so good to see him again!!!
He looks great and I do hope he sees many more birthdays!