Rossie has been living in the downstairs bathroom since we returned from Pennsylvania back in October. We started with Rossie, Sapphire, and Daisy in there, but Sapphire and Daisy regressed, so we returned them to the household population, where they are active and visible.

About the time we put Sapphire and Daisy back in the main part of the house, I brought Walter into the house. He was being bullied by the outside cats and had removed himself from the yard. Walter doesn’t like confrontation, so I thought he might be a good companion for Rossie. He and Rossie get along very well.

Over the last six months, Walter has adjusted to being in the house, and Rossie is thriving. She’s acting like a cat again. I once longed for the day when she would seek out my attention, and she does that regularly. I wouldn’t call her cuddly yet, but she comes within arm’s reach and leans into a chin scratch.

A few months ago, I began leaving the bathroom door open to allow Rossie and Walter the opportunity to go into the dining room while I was in the room to supervise. This served three purposes. First, it increased their range beyond the bathoom, giving them a change of scenery — Rossie loves to sit in the dining room windows, even though she has a bathroom window she can look out.

Second, Sneaky gets some feline companionship. She knew Walter when they were both outside, and she’s either Rossie’s mama or her aunt. We don’t know which.

Finally, it allows us to assess Rossie’s socialization progress. For the longet time, Rossie would only allow us to touch her in the bathroom. Yesterday, she approached Mr. L for an ear rub in the dining room.

We’re pleased with Rossie’s progress.