Graphic: photo of Maxine the cat.

Maxine’s caregiver bought her as a kitten from a breeder in Wisconsin. They bonded immediately. It took Maxine a little time to accept the caregiver's future husband, but she managed it. Historically, Maxine’s default method of dealing with people (other than her caregivers) has been to reject them first, before they have a chance to reject her.

When the couple brought their baby daughter home, however, Maxine was devastated. Everything she loved about her life would never be the same. After two baby boys and a move to a new house, Maxine became withdrawn and somewhat reclusive.

The shocks of losing her status in the eyes of her caregivers, and moving has clearly been a burden. This amount of change can have a huge effect on a rigid cat like Maxine. Maxine’s depression has made her more like the crabby-little-old-lady-Maxine, than the competent Sealpoint Siamese she really is.

She is most comfortable (and most like her true self) when she and her caregivers are alone in the house, but these times are few and far between.

She hates being around the children because she knows they are the ones who take up so much of her caregivers’ time.

Maxine likes: cat treats; full-body massages (on her terms, of course); rituals (e.g., greeting, feeding, bedtime); being “with” rather than “on;” conversation; cruising for nylons

She dislikes: having to compete with others for attention; children; intrusions upon her space; other animals; change

Graphic: photo of Maxine the cat.

Maxine’s Characteristics

—not much

—somewhat

—quite a bit

—very much!

Confidence—	Adaptable to change—
Plays well with others—	Activity level—
General Temperament—cranky at first, but sweet underneath