By Linda Buchanan (Momcat), Founder and Director of Catmandu
Sometimes rescue work begins with a phone call. Sometimes it starts with a trap, a colony, or a kitten in need. And sometimes, it begins with a person you loved long ago.
I grew up in southeastern Idaho in the 1960s and 70s, in a home that was, frankly, a very difficult place to grow up. During those years, I spent as much time as I could at my best friend Patti’s house. Her family welcomed me with kindness and warmth and helped me survive some very hard times. Patti’s older brother Jim was one of my favorite people — gentle, funny, and someone who always made me feel seen and appreciated. He helped me find hope for the future and survive the dark days.
Fast forward many years. Jim passed away in January after a long battle with illness and many years on dialysis. For the last several years, two very special cats were by his side: Blackie and Delilah. They were his comfort, his companions, and his little team of emotional support specialists.
After Jim passed, Patti found herself in a heartbreaking situation. She already had eight cats of her own and no one else in the family could take Jim’s girls. The alternative was surrendering them to the shelter in Idaho Falls. That simply wasn’t going to happen; not if I could help it.
So, Patti drove west from Idaho Falls, and I drove east from Carson City. We met halfway in Wendover, a rescue relay with a lot of miles and a lot of heart behind it. I brought Jim’s beloved cats back to Catmandu. And I am so glad I did. These two are absolutely wonderful.
Blackie, estimated to be 7–8 years old, is a short-haired black beauty with the softest, plushest fur imaginable. She is brave, outgoing, affectionate, and talkative. Blackie likes to keep the conversation going and has never met a lap she didn’t consider an invitation. If you sit down, expect company.
Delilah, around 5 years old, is a stunning black-and-white “cow cat” with bold patches and an irresistible little black nose. She is every bit as affectionate and outgoing as Blackie, but with one unique feature: she firmly believes shoulders were invented specifically for cat cuddling. If you’re sitting still, there’s a good chance Delilah will be on your shoulder. She also has a very clear policy on personal space. While both girls do fine with friendly cats, Delilah has no hesitation about loudly informing others when they are violating her bubble. She has opinions and is not afraid to share them. She WILL scream at them.
Both girls are spayed, up to date on vaccines, and enjoy playing. They have not been around dogs or small children. Though they can coexist with other easygoing cats, they would likely be happiest either adopted together or as the only pets in a home where they can soak up all the attention.
We would love to find Blackie and Delilah a home — or homes — as special as they are. A place filled with kindness, comfort, and love. Because in a way, finding them that happy ending feels like honoring Jim. And sometimes rescuing cats isn’t just about saving animals.
Sometimes it’s about keeping promises to people we never forget.
If you are that special person waiting for Blackie and Delilah, please visit Catmandu this weekend. We are open Friday- Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please arrive early to get to know the cats. Catmandu is located at 1829 Brown Street, Carson City.
Catmandu is a non-profit organization that receives no government funding or assistance from national organizations. We rely on donations and the generosity of the community to continue our lifesaving efforts. If you are interested in donating or volunteering, please visit our website at CatmanduCC.org. Meow means thank you.
