Conference misery::feline_v1

	I used to be away from my cat for many months at a time, when
I went to college.  Since the cat had known me for a few years before
that, my experience may not be the same as yours.  My cat generally
recognized me, but gave me unforgiving looks for a few days.  Then
he would relent (expecially if I fed him every day, instead of my mother
feeding him).  My cat had, however, been living in the same house that
he had before, and still slept on my bed when I was gone.  This may have
helped, since he did not forget my scent during the months I was gone.
	Your kittens knew you for probably 7 months when you left.  They
have known your best friend for 10 months.  You didn't say this, but I
am assuming that they were taken to a house other than the one you had
lived with them in?  This may be more difficult.  Your cats may have
formed a strong attachment to your friend, and this may be stronger than
the attachment they have for you after a 10 month absence.
	It is not hopeless, however.  You were the one who they knew when
they were very young and impressionable.  If you are patient and feed them
yourself and let them get to know you again in their own time and in their
own way, it should work out ok.  Be prepared for them to be confused,
not to recognize you too well, and to miss your friend, however.  Also, be
prepared for the possibility that, if he/she is fond of cats, your friend
may be as heart-broken as you to have the cats leave.

Good luck,
	Louise

When I was growing up, I visted my Father for 2 months in the Summer every
year.  His pets knew who I was when I arrived and they always gave me a
very warm and special welcome.

My feeling is that your love is what makes the bond between you and your
pets strong regardless of the time you spend away from them.  If there's one 
thing animals know, it's love!  If your kitties don't recognize your face at
first sight, they will at least recognize your warm, loving feelings for 
them and they will respond.

They will be happy to see you!!

Jerri

A cat is...
                 a faithful, loving, and true friend


        		    /\       /\
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       			  /    \---/    \
     			 (   _      _   )
     			 (  <@>    <@>  )       
      			 (     |__|     )       
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                             forever!

When I got my last cats as kittens, they met my mother on her yearly visit.
She stayed for ten days.

They remembered her a year later.

I woulfn't worry too much.

Steve Kallis, Jr.

Goonies is 10 years old.  When he was much younger, I had a number of
roommates, one of whom has remained a close friend.  Whenever she visits,
Goonies rushes to greet her purring and rubbing.  I guess they have remained
their friendship as well.

Susan

	Dear Louise, Jerri, Steve, and Susan;

	Thank you all so much for the thoughtful responses.
	I am truly grateful for them.
	I will believe in the POWER OF LOVE and do the best
	I can to restore the special relationship that
	my cats and I used to have.  But in any case, I will
	choose to do what is the best for the cats.
	Louise, I appreciate your mentioning that  
	my friend might wish to keep the cats, because  I never 
	thought of it although it is quite possible to happen. 
	Now I will be ready for that too. 

	In the beginning of the next year, I will be reporting 
	how the things turned out.  Wish me luck !!

	Thank you all once again.
 
					Kimi Y.
	p.s.
	Jerri, I love your *computer graphics*.  Especially,
	I love the way you drew the eyes of the cat !!