Buster was a solemn, raggedy stray. He was lucky to be part of a sizeable group of cats who were rescued and tamed over the years by Dorothy, a first-class feral cat wrangler. It's not that Dorothy made it a habit to go looking for stray cats. They found her, and soon Dorothy’s property became known as a safehouse for “cats in transition.”

Young Buster showed up at Dorothy’s about the same time she was socializing some kittens born to a semi-feral mom.

He was about two months old and already wary of humans. But after a few weeks of daily feeding and seeing Dorothy in the yard, Buster allowed himself to be charmed. Soon he moved inside, but he remained reclusive.

In 2004, Dorothy was diagnosed with cancer. Although it was difficult for her to even talk about her illness, when she understood that she had little time left, Dorothy made plans with JCHS for the continued care of her beloved Buster, Toby, Heidi, Mr Mittens, and Spook.

As she had hoped, Dorothy was able to die at home, amidst the cats who had given her so much joy. As we sat with Dorothy that last week of her life, Buster appeared more and more.

He’d stick to the perimeter of the rooms, and stealthily creep over to the hospital bed set up in the living room so Dorothy could see out her front window.

It wasn’t long until Buster sightings occured several times each day.

Buster and his housemates (all neighborhood rescues) made many new friends in fostercare. They all found homes except for Buster. He really is a nice cat, shy, but nice.

Far too many beloved companion animals become instantly homeless upon the death of their caregivers. Please take time now to discuss options with your lawyer and make provisions for your animals in your will.

Buster is a big guy with a small voice, and he’s still shy. Since his feline social skills are not well developed, he’s on lower rung in the feline hierarchy at his foster home.

He used to get picked on because his efforts to fit in were misunderstood. The females didn’t like him because he lacked subtlety when it came to personal space. The males disdained him because he’s kinda goofy.

They all get along well now without any drama.

Buster will never be a party cat. But it’s been very rewarding to see him change from the dusty cat who hid under the dresser to the handsome boy with snow-white paws who ventures downstairs to the kitchen for mealtimes. His foster caregiver likes the way he regularly comes around for headbutts, although she feels bad that he hasn't found his forever home.

Actually, Buster does better with humans than other cats. He will probably do best as a foil for a competent, but nurturing alpha cat.