Adoption Stories
Bronk in his FOREVER home!
Adopted October 2020
Bronk was once someones beloved pet before he ended up at our sanctuary. He shared his home with other cats and was loved. Sadly, when Bronk was only about 3 years old, his human passed away, leaving no one to care for him or his cat-siblings. Thus, he and the cats he once shared a home with had to be separated and split amongst cat sanctuaries. Bronk stayed at the sanctuary for a year until he met the humans he finally came home with. He gave the biggest meows, loudest purrs and the most soulful eyes for 2 whole years until last month, at 6 years old, he could come home once and for all! Once he had arrived home, his personality and confidence shot up and there was not a second wasted. Immediate, never ending cuddles and love. He now lives happily with 4 cat-sisters and humans that love him, with whom he will spend the rest of his life with!
May Cat of the month, Tiflu, at home
First day!
October Cat of the month, Jo, at home
Ear cancer caused by sun exposure in Zabbar - trapping - operation- 3 years Csaf Sanctuary - Adoption March 2020
Look at me now! Molly living the life!
Cospicua Kitten Mummy - Csaf Sanctuary - her 4 babies died - fostered two orphans - adoption October 19
February Cat of the month, Milo, at home
He did not wait in vain at the entrance every day.......
Look into Snowy's eyes....
Sanctuary Cat
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At HOME
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This is Snowy's story...❤
Beautiful Snowy is from Luqa and she is the result of absolute strength and resilience...👍
She is a furry blondy blue-eyed cat of approximately 2 years of age...😸
Snowy is aware of her beauty yet she is very humble and shy...❤
This beauty came into my colony at the tender age of approx 6 months...And she lovingly befriended a sweet black kitten...Well opposite attracts...😊😸
They ate together, played together and slept together...A kind neighbour had put a box in her porch with some blankets and they slept there cuddled together...😸❤ Sadly the black kitten died a few months later from a very unfortunate accident...He fell from a wall and his ribs punctured his lungs...This caused an infection and vet couldn't do anything to save him...🙀😥 Snowy and I missed him a lot...😣
Some months later Snowy all of a sudden disappeared for a couple of days...I looked for her everywhere, but to no avail...😥 Then she came a few days later she looked really, really sick and miserable...She couldn't eat anything...😥
It was a struggle to trap her, but finally I managed and I took her to the vet...Vet told me that she was very weak and it was a touch and go case...After a number of tests she was given lots of medications and CSAF kindly offered to keep her for recovery...This was in June 2019..
With a lot of love, care and patience she managed to make it...😸❤
After a couple of months she was neutered and cancer was removed from both her ears...👍😸
Snowy went through a lot pain and fear and it took her a long time to trust again...But now thanks to CSAF she isn't feral anymore...She's loving and she feels loved...She's sweet, docile and she craves attention...Everyone at CSAF knows her and loves her...She is fun to be around...A pampered beauty queen...😸❤
I visit her every week and I always get her small presents like special yummy treats...😸
I can't imagine not seeing her anymore...Actually I try not to think about it, but she deserves a home...Snowy deserves attention...She has a lot of love to spare...❤ I would have loved to take her home with me but my house cat is very very possessive and vet suggested that I do not get other pets...🤔
Well this is Snowy's story...I consider myself very lucky to have met her, fed her, played with her and treated her illnesses...I wish I could have done more, but I did my best...😸❤
I am grateful that you adopted her and give her the life that she deserves
Animals are men's best friends...❤I will be eternally grateful for your kindness...Thank you.
Beautiful Snowy is from Luqa and she is the result of absolute strength and resilience...👍
She is a furry blondy blue-eyed cat of approximately 2 years of age...😸
Snowy is aware of her beauty yet she is very humble and shy...❤
This beauty came into my colony at the tender age of approx 6 months...And she lovingly befriended a sweet black kitten...Well opposite attracts...😊😸
They ate together, played together and slept together...A kind neighbour had put a box in her porch with some blankets and they slept there cuddled together...😸❤ Sadly the black kitten died a few months later from a very unfortunate accident...He fell from a wall and his ribs punctured his lungs...This caused an infection and vet couldn't do anything to save him...🙀😥 Snowy and I missed him a lot...😣
Some months later Snowy all of a sudden disappeared for a couple of days...I looked for her everywhere, but to no avail...😥 Then she came a few days later she looked really, really sick and miserable...She couldn't eat anything...😥
It was a struggle to trap her, but finally I managed and I took her to the vet...Vet told me that she was very weak and it was a touch and go case...After a number of tests she was given lots of medications and CSAF kindly offered to keep her for recovery...This was in June 2019..
With a lot of love, care and patience she managed to make it...😸❤
After a couple of months she was neutered and cancer was removed from both her ears...👍😸
Snowy went through a lot pain and fear and it took her a long time to trust again...But now thanks to CSAF she isn't feral anymore...She's loving and she feels loved...She's sweet, docile and she craves attention...Everyone at CSAF knows her and loves her...She is fun to be around...A pampered beauty queen...😸❤
I visit her every week and I always get her small presents like special yummy treats...😸
I can't imagine not seeing her anymore...Actually I try not to think about it, but she deserves a home...Snowy deserves attention...She has a lot of love to spare...❤ I would have loved to take her home with me but my house cat is very very possessive and vet suggested that I do not get other pets...🤔
Well this is Snowy's story...I consider myself very lucky to have met her, fed her, played with her and treated her illnesses...I wish I could have done more, but I did my best...😸❤
I am grateful that you adopted her and give her the life that she deserves
Animals are men's best friends...❤I will be eternally grateful for your kindness...Thank you.
From Malta to Munich January 2020
Hello again from Papagena 29.06.2019
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Here I am again sending good wishes and a big HELLO to all my ex good friends and carers at the CSAF Sanctuary in Cospicua.
After my first story last year, I would like to tell my second one. Now I am growing up and I am three and a half years old. On the 7th July it will be one year living with my adoptive parents. I can now say how nice it is living with people who care a lot about me like my adoptive parents. As I said in my first story, this year they have taken me again on holiday to Germany, as they have promised me last year. |
We did have very nice warm days up north, but when we went for 3 weeks down south, the weather was not very favourable with 6 to 9 degrees temperatures and rain. Still I did enjoy looking out from the window seeing very nice birds flying past and lots of greenery. Since I am still afraid from new faces, my adoptive parents could not take me out for free strolls, so I had to spend my time in the room. But it was OK. I did know the where abouts were my adoptive parents used to drive to every day, because I always followed their planning which they used to do every day and even sat on the planning maps. I did get a bit friendly with the owner of the guest house who used to come to clean our room every day. She was very nice and every day she used to give me some chewing sticks. Being a fond eater I enjoyed them very much.
Now we are back in Malta and I can enjoy my view looking at the sea and watching the sea gulls flying past and the sparrows who come and visit me on the balcony. I want to say a big thank you to my ex carers and helpers at the Sanctuary, who looked after me during the two and a half years I spent with them. I will do my best to keep in touch from time to time. |
Honey bunny, 5 months on 16 June 2019
The very first night AT HOME
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Where is Honey 5 months later?
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Good news are so encouraging!!! Honey's family recently visited and showed pictures of a very privileged Honey. Given love and time, Honey now is a cherished and well established member of the household.
Dirty, very hungry, very frightened, Honey at last allowed herself to be trapped by dedicated and determined members of the public. Welcomed to the Sanctuary Honey ate, slept and cleaned herself . That her cage was moved fom one enclosure to the next due to restructuring work did not worry her in the least. On the contrary, one volunteer of the "removal team" melted her feline heart. She came out of her shell allowing him to touch, stroke and tickle. Once the ice was broken , Honey showed courage and composure allowing visitors to play with her. A sweet survivor homed in record time!
Cosmo safely arrived at home
Storm in Malta, sun in Bavaria
Marley's first deck chair! You are never too old for trying out something new
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Marley testing the February sunshine on the pateo
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How I adopted Emerald
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"I met Emerald on my second day I visited the sanctuary. I was walking around and when she saw me she came up to me and jumped on my knees. So I kneeled down and she jumped on my shoulder. I asked the carers if she had a name but she didn't so I looked at her to come up with a name. Then I realised that her eyes were as green as emeralds so I named her Emerald! That day I stayed petting her. The next week I visited again and when I went I looking for her I found her on the sink. When someone came to wash their hands, Emerald started licking the water coming from the tap. When the person left, I switched on the tap again and she started licking the water again so I realised she liked doing it a lot. Even now she still likes to do it. "
Around the 8th of January of last year the whole family went to adopt her. After signing some papers, we put Emerald in the cage and took her in the car to our home. Now she's happily enjoying the house.
Marley - at home in Bavaria Nov/Dec 2018
Snow Cat Marley
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Undaunted explorer
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Maltese duo - Marley and blind Sanctuary-Sister Queenie
Tall, fluffy, of striking appearance, cuddly, affectionate, but NEVER pushy, excellent manners, amazing patience...
Marley's many qualities resulted in much interest and good friends.
But nobody wanted to adopt him. Why? Because Marley is FIV positive.
For years he waited to be invited into a home and his heart broke with several friendships. When winter loomed again with the seasonal snuffles which a healthy Cat shakes off but which pose a serious risk to FIV Cats. Marley sent a letter to Bavaria. Last winter his elderly, blind and incontinent Sanctuary sister Queenie had been offered a home there. And there was Spanish Lucky whose tail had been ripped from his body which was still riddled with pellets. If they were welcome, perhaps, perhaps there would be room for a broken hearted FIV ginger as well?
Marley's many qualities resulted in much interest and good friends.
But nobody wanted to adopt him. Why? Because Marley is FIV positive.
For years he waited to be invited into a home and his heart broke with several friendships. When winter loomed again with the seasonal snuffles which a healthy Cat shakes off but which pose a serious risk to FIV Cats. Marley sent a letter to Bavaria. Last winter his elderly, blind and incontinent Sanctuary sister Queenie had been offered a home there. And there was Spanish Lucky whose tail had been ripped from his body which was still riddled with pellets. If they were welcome, perhaps, perhaps there would be room for a broken hearted FIV ginger as well?
PAPAGENA - Patience rewarded |
19.10.2018
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I would like to tell my story to try and encourage people to adopt some of my friends from the Carers for Stray and Abandoned Feline Sanctuary in Cospicua. I am a female neutered cat, who was taken to the Sanctuary as a kitten and now I am living with my adoptive parents. I was born with two sisters, two and a half years ago. I must say that I was very lucky to grow up in this Sanctuary, and I am very thankful to all the carers, helpers and volunteers who do all their best to keep every one happy and comfortable. Special thanks go to all who cared for me during the two years and two months I was at the Sanctuary. A very big thank you goes to all the agents and private people who generously supply the Sanctuary with food and money for us.
When I was very young I was separated from my sisters because they had been adopted. So I was left to fend for my own. I am grateful to the volunteers who took care and interest in me and brought me up the way I am.
Last March my photo was placed on the Sanctuary Website Page in case someone was interested to adopt me. Luckily the photo had been seen by my now adoptive parents and they said: SHE SHOULD BE OUR CAT: They phoned up the Sanctuary and asked if they can book me up for adoption, but I had to wait for three months because they were going abroad, and would take me on after their return. They kept their promise and on the 7th of July I left the Sanctuary to my new adoptive home. I must admit that it was not an easy start for me and my adoptive parents. I was not a house cat, but accustomed to have a bit of freedom and I'm a different character to the previous cat they had before. The cat which they had before for 7 years had to be put down to sleep because of cancer. My adoptive parents are very nice and caring and sometimes they have to go out of their way to please me and try to do the best for me. I must admit I am not an easy feline, but slowly I am doing my best to please them in return.
Now I have been with them for the last three months. I have realized how nice it is to have someone to treat you like a Queen, having a bed of my own, eating my meal with nobody stealin from me, having a varied breakfast and above all having my privacy. And not only that. Even being taken for a holiday. My adoptive father is Maltese and my adoptive mother is German. In fact at the moment I am with them in Germany for almost three months. Since I have behaved very well on the journey, they promised me that this will be repeated twice a year. I admit that I have changed my character a lot. I am now more friendly with them, I am now totally trusting them and spend a lot of time playing with them. Of course now I do realize the difference between living in a comfortable place with someone who is there with me for almost 24 hours, and living in a large community with over 300 cats, where sometimes you have to fight to get your share of food because of greedy companions. But overall I cannot grumble because at the sanctuary, for us, it was like a small hotel, comparing with stray cats who live on the roads.
I think that I have said a lot about my previous and my present life. One last thing I want to say to those who would like to adopt a cat. The first thing to do is to ask themselves if they have enough patience and time to adopt a cat. I must say that my adoptive parents do have a lot of both otherwise I could have ended back at the sanctuary. I tell you I was not an easy one, but after three weeks I started to behave well and that has paid a lot. My last big thank you goes again to all the helpers and volunteers who reserve a lot of their spare time to take care of all the felines at the sanctuary.
Thanking you for having the time to read my story, and please do help those people who are looking and caring for my ex friends at the sanctuary: CARERS for STRAY and ABANDONED FELINES (CSAF) in Cospicua.
Mo's story 28.08.18
Mo has taken off for her new life.....
Utterly relaxed Mo travels with his human Mummy. Humans took over when environmental stresses in San Giljan prevented Cats to cope for themselves and their litter.
Utterly relaxed Mo travels with his human Mummy. Humans took over when environmental stresses in San Giljan prevented Cats to cope for themselves and their litter.
These are faint impressions of 2 of the 5 sick kittens in dire need of help. They were spotted by a Carer end of May. She had never trapped before, but the poor state of Cats and Kittens forced her into action. The first time trapper approached the challenge strategically:
1. Ask csaf whether admission of yet another litter was possible.
2. Get advice on site from experienced trapper about how it might be done.
3. Get and stay in touch with feeders.
4. Borrow trap and extensions from csaf.
5. Start making friends with Cats and Kittens.
Trapping rarely is quick or straight forward. Any trapper needs stamina, determination and imagination. Especially when you are not familiar to the Cats you want to help. And the Kittens need courage and trust to enter the trap in order to survive .
All 5 Kittens were eventually trapped, though it was too late for the last one to get in.
Despite immediate veterinary attention and care from an experienced fosterer, he was too sick, too weak to fight for life. Mo's little brother left this world in a quiet, comfortable environment, - loved, expertly cared for, without pain.
His death left Mo as runt of the litter and with the least hope of survival.
He now transferred to the Sanctuary with his 3 stronger siblings . There they all were seen by the vet and received individual care. Soon Mo's two fittest and strongest siblings captured the hearts of adopting parents. Together they left for a secure life as chosen members of their new family.
Can you imagine the joy and relief of all involved?
1. Ask csaf whether admission of yet another litter was possible.
2. Get advice on site from experienced trapper about how it might be done.
3. Get and stay in touch with feeders.
4. Borrow trap and extensions from csaf.
5. Start making friends with Cats and Kittens.
Trapping rarely is quick or straight forward. Any trapper needs stamina, determination and imagination. Especially when you are not familiar to the Cats you want to help. And the Kittens need courage and trust to enter the trap in order to survive .
All 5 Kittens were eventually trapped, though it was too late for the last one to get in.
Despite immediate veterinary attention and care from an experienced fosterer, he was too sick, too weak to fight for life. Mo's little brother left this world in a quiet, comfortable environment, - loved, expertly cared for, without pain.
His death left Mo as runt of the litter and with the least hope of survival.
He now transferred to the Sanctuary with his 3 stronger siblings . There they all were seen by the vet and received individual care. Soon Mo's two fittest and strongest siblings captured the hearts of adopting parents. Together they left for a secure life as chosen members of their new family.
Can you imagine the joy and relief of all involved?
Meanwhile Mo and energetic sister Ma where doing their best to appear trusting and interested. Whenever visitors appeared, they were racing to the (cage) door at an impressive speed.
So one day miniature Mo with his enormous ears had his fatal encounter.
He met his future Mummy and immediately won her heart.
From now on he - and sister Ma - received regular visits with extra food and special care. When the cage was cleaned and the Kittens happy, Mo always had quality time, sitting on Mummy and practising his purr.
Purring for Mummy
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Will I be fit for travel on the day?
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Mo, sister Ma and foster sister Mi in the kitten enclosure
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Like his trapping life saver, Mo's new Mummy also was a strategist.
This was her brief:
1. Ask csaf whether Mo could be adopted to another country.
2. See vet about time table for vaccinations, micro chipping and passport, taking into account Mo's ongoing medical care.
3. Stick to this time table while building up Mo's mental and physical fitness.
4. Organize travel and accommodation abroad for Mo and herself .
5. and - mission almost (!!!) impossible: Find a foster home for Mo's last weeks in Malta to prevent him from picking up last-minute infection from the Sanctuary Cats thus ensuring the required " fitness for travel".
This was her brief:
1. Ask csaf whether Mo could be adopted to another country.
2. See vet about time table for vaccinations, micro chipping and passport, taking into account Mo's ongoing medical care.
3. Stick to this time table while building up Mo's mental and physical fitness.
4. Organize travel and accommodation abroad for Mo and herself .
5. and - mission almost (!!!) impossible: Find a foster home for Mo's last weeks in Malta to prevent him from picking up last-minute infection from the Sanctuary Cats thus ensuring the required " fitness for travel".
Exactly (!!) 3 months after he was first sighted by his life saver, Mo and Mummy took off into their new life together. It is impossible to measure the time and effort so many people put into rescue operation Mo. A happy ending could never be guaranteed.
Is it worth it? How do we value (a Kitten's) life?
Is it worth it? How do we value (a Kitten's) life?
Ludovico booked for homing 15.08.2018
Big brother Liam came first. Loki and Phoenix followed. Now playful, but lonely Ludovico has been offered a home as well. And to complete his happiness: He will share it with a playmate, with another kitten from the Sanctuary. Big, big THANK YOU from Ludovico to the understanding "parents"!!!!
Loki and Phoenix discovering life as Family Cats
Lucky Liam
08.07.2018
Big paws, big eyes and a very sweet temperament: Lucky Liam is booked for homing
Liam's, Loki's and Phoenix' brother Ludovico just arrived!!! Not quite as fluffy, not quite as confident, but the same lovely and sweet temperament. He, like his three brothers, found a kind, understanding home!!!!!
Rio and Mio 15.06.2018
Hi,
we are Rio and Mio and we’ve found a new family last Wednesday. Our new parents, Herbert and Michael, spend a lot of time with us, since we’re very adventurous and good climbers.
We couldn’t hold back to look out of the bag when we were brought to our new home in Ghaxaq by car and we didn’t like to spend the first the hours in the bathroom (how boring!), as we got used to our new home and family very fast.
A few hours later we already had an ‘AAA’-pass - ‘Access All Areas’ and we use this opportunity a lot. We love to run up and down and sometimes we fight a bit like all male kittens love to do.
If Herbert and Michael call us, we listen and go for getting cuddled. But that’s not enough so we also look for them on our own and start purring loudly as soon as we enter the room.
They bought us a nice cat bed which we use from time to time, but like any other cats we prefer finding our own favourite places to sleep.
Sometimes we sleep next to them in the big bed, sometimes we love to take a nap underneath the stairs on stored suitcases.
But most of the time we are full of energy and very playful.
We hope that our two remaining kitten siblings in the sanctuary find a place like ours. We are sure that they will be as playful, outgoing, impatient and loving as we are :)
19.06.2018
Note from the editor:
Rio & Mio's two remaining kitten siblings were homed TOGETHER. Thank you to all who gift a happy and secure life to our kittens!!
15.06.2018
we are Rio and Mio and we’ve found a new family last Wednesday. Our new parents, Herbert and Michael, spend a lot of time with us, since we’re very adventurous and good climbers.
We couldn’t hold back to look out of the bag when we were brought to our new home in Ghaxaq by car and we didn’t like to spend the first the hours in the bathroom (how boring!), as we got used to our new home and family very fast.
A few hours later we already had an ‘AAA’-pass - ‘Access All Areas’ and we use this opportunity a lot. We love to run up and down and sometimes we fight a bit like all male kittens love to do.
If Herbert and Michael call us, we listen and go for getting cuddled. But that’s not enough so we also look for them on our own and start purring loudly as soon as we enter the room.
They bought us a nice cat bed which we use from time to time, but like any other cats we prefer finding our own favourite places to sleep.
Sometimes we sleep next to them in the big bed, sometimes we love to take a nap underneath the stairs on stored suitcases.
But most of the time we are full of energy and very playful.
We hope that our two remaining kitten siblings in the sanctuary find a place like ours. We are sure that they will be as playful, outgoing, impatient and loving as we are :)
19.06.2018
Note from the editor:
Rio & Mio's two remaining kitten siblings were homed TOGETHER. Thank you to all who gift a happy and secure life to our kittens!!
15.06.2018
Ella sleeping beautifully 13.05.2018 (Mothers' Day!!!)
Inspired by Timmy, Ella sent us pictures of her multi-tasking: Beauty sleep as well as study support for her busy Mummy. Please note hat her pillow matches her nose. ......
Ella chose her Mum herself, as she knew she would need very special care all her life. Her health has never been 100% and every 2 weeks she sees the vet to check everything over and make sure there’s no deterioration. Cats have Guardian Angels too!
Timmy sleeping weird 11.05.2018
Timmy at home, happily demonstrating his weirdest sleeping positions. Rest is best!!!!
Oscar, at home in Hamrun 15.04.2018
"Oscar is doing very well"
Nania, found her new home in March! 14.04.2018
News from Queenie |
Update 13.03.2018
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Queenie's first visit to her new garden in Germany
"[06:57, 10/01/2018] My dearest Queenie,
It has been an honour and a pleasure looking after you while you have waited patiently for the home you so completely and utterly deserve.
You have been through so much hardship, so many sweltering heats, and so many blistering colds, but even after so many years of this hardship, you are still the most cuddly loving wonderful girl I’ve had the luxury to foster.
I hope your new life in Germany is everything that pussy cats only dream of... I cried last night when you left, not from sadness, but from overwhelming emotion at the concept of the wonderful new life and adventures that await you.
Good luck my darling, I know your carer will hold your paw and be the sight you don’t have, all the way to your new life.
All my love,
Your temporary mum, B x"
It has been an honour and a pleasure looking after you while you have waited patiently for the home you so completely and utterly deserve.
You have been through so much hardship, so many sweltering heats, and so many blistering colds, but even after so many years of this hardship, you are still the most cuddly loving wonderful girl I’ve had the luxury to foster.
I hope your new life in Germany is everything that pussy cats only dream of... I cried last night when you left, not from sadness, but from overwhelming emotion at the concept of the wonderful new life and adventures that await you.
Good luck my darling, I know your carer will hold your paw and be the sight you don’t have, all the way to your new life.
All my love,
Your temporary mum, B x"
Above is the message from Queenie's fosterer when she set out for flight KM 0306 early on Wednesday morning. She travelled like a Queen indeed, in the spacious new bag from her foster mum and equipped with everything a cat might need on a journey. Two CSAF committee members took us to the airport and when boarding the plane Air Malta had given us a complete row of seats to spread out on. So we travelled most comfortably, calm and collected.
On arrival in Munich airport unfazed Queenie drank water from her dish and we met her new parents refreshed and alert.
They had been hoping to welcome Queenie at Christmas, however vaccinations and health issues had postponed departure. Fortunately Queenie had friends. They understood that her destiny hung in the balance and offered to devote their Christmas break and warm home to get the Queen ready for launch. Queenie continued to hope and cooperate. Having returned in late autumn from her first home back to the Sanctuary, she adapted to her foster home, then went on a flight and now was ready to meet her new family in Germany.
Who says cats or seniors find it difficult to adapt?
Queenie has finally arrived . With a cat loving, retired couple she resides in her own sunny, south facing room.A low toddler gate in the door is enabling her to the smell and hear what is going on in the rest of the house and respectful contact with the 3 other family cats . There are handsome chocolate coloured Nino and gregarious, stump tailed, incontinent ginger Lucky from Spain, who both escaped death narrowly. Their eyes, face and bodies show that they have a story to tell. And sweet, old, black and white Rosa rescued by German cat carers from the harsh conditions of a Bavarian farm in winter.
They all are lovingly and expertly cared for and in beautiful condition. It was baffling how calmly and unperturbed they took note of the new arrival. Lucky came up to the bars and observed for a while, then left, Rosa keeps watching from a distance. For all of them it was very obviously business as usual.
In the mean time Queenie has been to the vet and is getting her bearings. Food and water she discovered straight away, the first night was spent on exploring her new room and by now she is using her litter box fairly (!) regularly. When there are accidents, her blanket gets dried by the underfloor heating and is washed daily, as well as the floor....
Her parents call her her sunshine and are touched by her affection.
Love is universal.
On arrival in Munich airport unfazed Queenie drank water from her dish and we met her new parents refreshed and alert.
They had been hoping to welcome Queenie at Christmas, however vaccinations and health issues had postponed departure. Fortunately Queenie had friends. They understood that her destiny hung in the balance and offered to devote their Christmas break and warm home to get the Queen ready for launch. Queenie continued to hope and cooperate. Having returned in late autumn from her first home back to the Sanctuary, she adapted to her foster home, then went on a flight and now was ready to meet her new family in Germany.
Who says cats or seniors find it difficult to adapt?
Queenie has finally arrived . With a cat loving, retired couple she resides in her own sunny, south facing room.A low toddler gate in the door is enabling her to the smell and hear what is going on in the rest of the house and respectful contact with the 3 other family cats . There are handsome chocolate coloured Nino and gregarious, stump tailed, incontinent ginger Lucky from Spain, who both escaped death narrowly. Their eyes, face and bodies show that they have a story to tell. And sweet, old, black and white Rosa rescued by German cat carers from the harsh conditions of a Bavarian farm in winter.
They all are lovingly and expertly cared for and in beautiful condition. It was baffling how calmly and unperturbed they took note of the new arrival. Lucky came up to the bars and observed for a while, then left, Rosa keeps watching from a distance. For all of them it was very obviously business as usual.
In the mean time Queenie has been to the vet and is getting her bearings. Food and water she discovered straight away, the first night was spent on exploring her new room and by now she is using her litter box fairly (!) regularly. When there are accidents, her blanket gets dried by the underfloor heating and is washed daily, as well as the floor....
Her parents call her her sunshine and are touched by her affection.
Love is universal.
The British Connection
Poppy Ready for Change
CSAF Cats treasure a very special relationship with British tourists. Tourists who look, care, act and persevere when a cat is in need.
Poor, skinny Popsy rescued from Popeye Village by a courageous British lady and supporting family is doing well. He gradually managed to increase in both body weight and confidence in the human race. Popsy still is overcome with fear at times. Especially when food is being offered he is visibly torn between temptation and the urge to flee, however, he has learnt that CSAF carers are not after his life. His gingivitis is monitored and much improved. Popsy himself has been working hard at familiarizing himself with cats and carers. Baby steps....And an enormous THANK YOU to a family who noticed a starving cat, paralyzed by fear, and cared!
Lucky, cuddly Amu who shot out of a drain pipe into a major road was picked up by a British couple from Berkshire. What would you do with a handful of ginger and white, with a nursing kitten, in the heat and stillness of the early afternoon on the last day of your holidays?.
Undeterred and determined they started their drawn out quest through the Three Cities, from a police station they were finally sent to the Sanctuary where at last they sat down with tiny Amu trustingly snuggling into their hand.
As Sanctuary conditions are too harsh for milking kittens, Amu found refuge with a fosterer who provided the 24/7 high quality care which bottle feeding, orphaned and traumatised kittens require. As he grew stronger he shared a cage with rescued ginger baby Jody. They had regular outings to the Happy Paws clinic and into the fosterer's family life.
When they transferred back to the Sanctuary together, both were fit, alert, socialized, beautiful and hoping for adoption. As there were quite a few kitten contenders they had to be patient for a while. Friday, 20th October turned out to be their big day: Amu and Jody were homed
TOGETHER.
That Amu survived his precarious slide into the dangerous big world outside, that he was invited into a loving home and is growing up with a playmate was only possible because of his British guardian angels. As they also provided CSAF with the exact location of the deadly exit, it could be made safe for Amu's siblings.To what lengths would we be prepared to go to save a cat on the last day of our holidays?
Again it was the last day of their holiday when another cat loving British couple decided to visit the Sanctuary. Talking to all and admiring all they were greeted and followed by a steadily growing company of cats. Curious and bold ones attaching themselves firmly, pretty and playful ones seeking their attention. When after about an hour they had almost finished their tour it happened: their eyes met the steady gaze of a small, black, lonely Persian.
It was a fateful encounter. Over the last seven years the couple had already adopted two strays in need from Sliema. Phone calls were made, credentials were given.
They knew the procedures, they were aware of the staggering costs. That the feather light Persian stray had already been adopted twice and returned because she did not use the litter tray and that she had a kidney condition only furthered her case in the eyes of her new "parents". She was named Poppy and it was not a case of good-bye, but rather see-you-soon.
And Poppy understood. Whenever the vet visited to chip or to vaccinate, Poppy was waiting. When a month before departure she moved to a fosterer to avoid last minute infection she started using her litter tray. When it was time to transfer to the travel box Poppy was ready and calm. And when she finally met her family at the Gatwick Animal Reception Centre she was curiously craning her neck, ready for cuddles and a snack.
CSAF Cats gratefully and proudly acknowledge their British connection.
Poor, skinny Popsy rescued from Popeye Village by a courageous British lady and supporting family is doing well. He gradually managed to increase in both body weight and confidence in the human race. Popsy still is overcome with fear at times. Especially when food is being offered he is visibly torn between temptation and the urge to flee, however, he has learnt that CSAF carers are not after his life. His gingivitis is monitored and much improved. Popsy himself has been working hard at familiarizing himself with cats and carers. Baby steps....And an enormous THANK YOU to a family who noticed a starving cat, paralyzed by fear, and cared!
Lucky, cuddly Amu who shot out of a drain pipe into a major road was picked up by a British couple from Berkshire. What would you do with a handful of ginger and white, with a nursing kitten, in the heat and stillness of the early afternoon on the last day of your holidays?.
Undeterred and determined they started their drawn out quest through the Three Cities, from a police station they were finally sent to the Sanctuary where at last they sat down with tiny Amu trustingly snuggling into their hand.
As Sanctuary conditions are too harsh for milking kittens, Amu found refuge with a fosterer who provided the 24/7 high quality care which bottle feeding, orphaned and traumatised kittens require. As he grew stronger he shared a cage with rescued ginger baby Jody. They had regular outings to the Happy Paws clinic and into the fosterer's family life.
When they transferred back to the Sanctuary together, both were fit, alert, socialized, beautiful and hoping for adoption. As there were quite a few kitten contenders they had to be patient for a while. Friday, 20th October turned out to be their big day: Amu and Jody were homed
TOGETHER.
That Amu survived his precarious slide into the dangerous big world outside, that he was invited into a loving home and is growing up with a playmate was only possible because of his British guardian angels. As they also provided CSAF with the exact location of the deadly exit, it could be made safe for Amu's siblings.To what lengths would we be prepared to go to save a cat on the last day of our holidays?
Again it was the last day of their holiday when another cat loving British couple decided to visit the Sanctuary. Talking to all and admiring all they were greeted and followed by a steadily growing company of cats. Curious and bold ones attaching themselves firmly, pretty and playful ones seeking their attention. When after about an hour they had almost finished their tour it happened: their eyes met the steady gaze of a small, black, lonely Persian.
It was a fateful encounter. Over the last seven years the couple had already adopted two strays in need from Sliema. Phone calls were made, credentials were given.
They knew the procedures, they were aware of the staggering costs. That the feather light Persian stray had already been adopted twice and returned because she did not use the litter tray and that she had a kidney condition only furthered her case in the eyes of her new "parents". She was named Poppy and it was not a case of good-bye, but rather see-you-soon.
And Poppy understood. Whenever the vet visited to chip or to vaccinate, Poppy was waiting. When a month before departure she moved to a fosterer to avoid last minute infection she started using her litter tray. When it was time to transfer to the travel box Poppy was ready and calm. And when she finally met her family at the Gatwick Animal Reception Centre she was curiously craning her neck, ready for cuddles and a snack.
CSAF Cats gratefully and proudly acknowledge their British connection.
Three Men and a Cat
The happy homing of Coober the cat on the feast of St. Marija
A father and his sons came to choose a cat, but Coober chose them!!
When "his" men visited for the first time, he firmly attached himself and followed and followed and followed...The next time he was waiting eagerly for them to return with the family for approval.
They told Coober they would come to fetch him on the Feast! For Coober the Feast of Assumption will always be the day his new life began! How fitting for Coober to celebrate his new birthday on the same day we celebrate Our Lady’s Assumption and the arrival of the Allied Convoy during WWII. He will surely celebrate alongside his new family with deep appreciation in years to come.
Coober waited patiently in his enclosure on the Feast. No outing into the surroundings. He was calmly waiting for his men to come for him.
When they arrived he sat next to the door. He was ready. Everything was in perfect, almost uncanny agreement. He happily got into and settled proudly in HIS brand new cat carrier. Carers commented that they had never witnessed such a matter of fact transfer into a cat box. This was meant to be!
His new human brother took care of him while cats and carers waved good bye. A new start into a new life! A second, once in a million chance for an adult cat.
We hear from the family that Coober settled in happily on the bed as soon as he arrived home! A fellow creature for two boys to grow up with, learning to be caring, responsible citizens of our planet.
Wouldn't you like to change lives as well?
When "his" men visited for the first time, he firmly attached himself and followed and followed and followed...The next time he was waiting eagerly for them to return with the family for approval.
They told Coober they would come to fetch him on the Feast! For Coober the Feast of Assumption will always be the day his new life began! How fitting for Coober to celebrate his new birthday on the same day we celebrate Our Lady’s Assumption and the arrival of the Allied Convoy during WWII. He will surely celebrate alongside his new family with deep appreciation in years to come.
Coober waited patiently in his enclosure on the Feast. No outing into the surroundings. He was calmly waiting for his men to come for him.
When they arrived he sat next to the door. He was ready. Everything was in perfect, almost uncanny agreement. He happily got into and settled proudly in HIS brand new cat carrier. Carers commented that they had never witnessed such a matter of fact transfer into a cat box. This was meant to be!
His new human brother took care of him while cats and carers waved good bye. A new start into a new life! A second, once in a million chance for an adult cat.
We hear from the family that Coober settled in happily on the bed as soon as he arrived home! A fellow creature for two boys to grow up with, learning to be caring, responsible citizens of our planet.
Wouldn't you like to change lives as well?
Nails
The gentile life of a tough street cat
"Nails was a street cat, thin with a dirty coat and an ear infection. A kind volunteer from The C.S.A.F helped me to catch him and have him neutered. He was de-flead , wormed and had his ear treated.
12 months on he is a happy, big white cat that is very good company and my best friend.
I would like to thank the C.S.A.F for all the work that is done for lost cats and let others know how rewarding it is to have a rescue cat when a cat is neutered he will not wonder from home and will be healthy and happy."
12 months on he is a happy, big white cat that is very good company and my best friend.
I would like to thank the C.S.A.F for all the work that is done for lost cats and let others know how rewarding it is to have a rescue cat when a cat is neutered he will not wonder from home and will be healthy and happy."
The Diary of the Sultaness of the Van
The adoption chronicles of Kikina, a rags to riches kitten (Chapter 2)
Written by Petra George, Kikina's owner and longtime CSAF volunteer
Written by Petra George, Kikina's owner and longtime CSAF volunteer
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Big Chikku of Bormla.
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Living Arrangements
Once Kikina was neutered, groomed and seemed settled in the Sanctuary it was time for vaccinations. To avoid complications it is important to keep the stress level low so the vet came to the cat. Kikina stayed calm and behaved reasonably well, much better than at the groomers. After the booster and with a vaccination record we hoped to have set her up for a reasonably safe life
Kikina neither was nor is a cuddly, gentle or overtly affectionate cat. She does not climb on our lap or sits purring in it. For months she did NOT enjoy being touched, groomed or stroked. However, this is very gradually changing. Kikina is a tomboy who loves to play rough, run, hide and jump out to surprise us. We still have not managed to teach her that our hands are not her toys, but we live in hope. Kikina never tried to win our hearts with gentleness, rather with her amazing loyalty. Whenever we entered the sanctuary, there was our little whirlwind. She watched us, followed us round and always stayed within our view until we left. Kikina obviously felt a bond. She ate more to please us than because she wanted food. We upgraded our offerings.
Enter big Chikku of Bormla, former street cat and our first and foremost sanctuary charge. It was in the sanctuary that their paths crossed and he will remain an important factor regarding her future. We always fed the two together. In 2015 a deep-rooted tumor had literally grown out of Chikku’s left ear. In great pain he had asked for and received shelter and help. Sanctuary staff had taken him to a vet who had suggested to remove the tumor and ear canal. We had offered to do the aftercare „at home“. Home was our boat, but Chikku had not minded. He, the vet and we had all been fighting for his life.
After intensive recovery care Chikku had felt strong enough to claim freedom and independence. But the increasing traffic in the center of Bormla made the streets no longer safe for a 12 year old, half deaf tom. As Chikku determinedly craved the outdoors, the sanctuary was the perfect compromise. There Chikku did not feel confined and roamed free, but safe from cars. He had always liked his food and he definitely liked the CSAF buffett. Considering his age and previous status as lone local hero, Chikku adjusted well to sharing life with 250 companions.
Kikina on the other hand was still young and seemed sufficiently adaptable to settle in a home. The sanctuary is meant for cats who cannot fend for themselves. Decision time. Should we offer Kikina up for adoption? Kikina obviously felt that we three belonged together. We felt the same, so in June we took Kikina home.
Home in the summer is our boat, but Kikina did not mind either. She seems to adapt to most environments and immediately became a happy boat cat. She spent her time watching fish, life on the pontoon, passing boats and passers-by, sleeping on and under deck or hiding under the dinghi.
After intensive recovery care Chikku had felt strong enough to claim freedom and independence. But the increasing traffic in the center of Bormla made the streets no longer safe for a 12 year old, half deaf tom. As Chikku determinedly craved the outdoors, the sanctuary was the perfect compromise. There Chikku did not feel confined and roamed free, but safe from cars. He had always liked his food and he definitely liked the CSAF buffett. Considering his age and previous status as lone local hero, Chikku adjusted well to sharing life with 250 companions.
Kikina on the other hand was still young and seemed sufficiently adaptable to settle in a home. The sanctuary is meant for cats who cannot fend for themselves. Decision time. Should we offer Kikina up for adoption? Kikina obviously felt that we three belonged together. We felt the same, so in June we took Kikina home.
Home in the summer is our boat, but Kikina did not mind either. She seems to adapt to most environments and immediately became a happy boat cat. She spent her time watching fish, life on the pontoon, passing boats and passers-by, sleeping on and under deck or hiding under the dinghi.
Chikku, fast asleep after another surgery.
Kikina being lulled to sleep by the motion of the boat
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The Diary of the Sultaness of the Van
The adoption chronicles of Kikina, a rags to riches kitten (Chapter 1)
Written by Petra George, Kikina's owner and longtime CSAF volunteer
Written by Petra George, Kikina's owner and longtime CSAF volunteer
The Beginning
Kikina found us! She came out of the rocks along a fairly busy road and asked for food. A confident very young cat, extremely pretty, very sweet and markedly fond of men. There was no triangle in her left ear. An un-neutered female loose on Bormla’s roads. Did she have a home or feeder? Was she lost and missed? Under her silky coat we felt large lumps of matted hair. She definitely needed help with her grooming.
While Kikina was happy to receive attention, a cage and food were borrowed from the nearby CSAF Sanctuary. It was not difficult to persuade the cat into the cage. It would be more difficult to get her admitted into the sanctuary. The carers there were already stretched to their limits during the height of the kitten season. More cats need more carers!
However, any stray is allowed to stay a few days until neutered.
When she was accepted for a longer stay we were more than happy to pay the admission charge, intended to cover at least part of Kikina‘s expenses: her daily food, vet expenses, litter, cleaning her cage, the enclosure and the grounds in which she played, documentation and book keeping. We cared for her as much as possible ourselves in the sanctuary, feeding and cleaning out her cage at least once a day.
Unable to disentangle the may lumps in her badly matted coat we had her very professionally groomed. It was not easy! Kikina screamed, fought and hissed with great determination. However through the glass door I witnessed that she was handled with gentle, kind and calm expertise. Once out Kikina vigorously shook herself and then licked what was left of her coat into perfection
After recovery and with excellent results from her blood works Kikina gradually familiarised herself with the sanctuary. Three weeks after her arrival she got free admittance to the grounds….
Kikina found us! She came out of the rocks along a fairly busy road and asked for food. A confident very young cat, extremely pretty, very sweet and markedly fond of men. There was no triangle in her left ear. An un-neutered female loose on Bormla’s roads. Did she have a home or feeder? Was she lost and missed? Under her silky coat we felt large lumps of matted hair. She definitely needed help with her grooming.
While Kikina was happy to receive attention, a cage and food were borrowed from the nearby CSAF Sanctuary. It was not difficult to persuade the cat into the cage. It would be more difficult to get her admitted into the sanctuary. The carers there were already stretched to their limits during the height of the kitten season. More cats need more carers!
However, any stray is allowed to stay a few days until neutered.
When she was accepted for a longer stay we were more than happy to pay the admission charge, intended to cover at least part of Kikina‘s expenses: her daily food, vet expenses, litter, cleaning her cage, the enclosure and the grounds in which she played, documentation and book keeping. We cared for her as much as possible ourselves in the sanctuary, feeding and cleaning out her cage at least once a day.
Unable to disentangle the may lumps in her badly matted coat we had her very professionally groomed. It was not easy! Kikina screamed, fought and hissed with great determination. However through the glass door I witnessed that she was handled with gentle, kind and calm expertise. Once out Kikina vigorously shook herself and then licked what was left of her coat into perfection
After recovery and with excellent results from her blood works Kikina gradually familiarised herself with the sanctuary. Three weeks after her arrival she got free admittance to the grounds….
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