Cat of the Month, April 2017: Eloise
In the winter of 2002, Alicia Sloan adopted two kittens—sisters—and named them after the famed children’s books, Eloise and Madeline. And Eloise certainly fit her namesake, who is known for being precocious and always into something. “That’s very much like Eloise the cat’s personality,” Alicia says. The best of friends and cuddle champions, these 15-year-old American Shorthairs recently parted ways, when sweet Madeline passed away from cancer. Now a solo kitty, Eloise is our April Cat of the Month.
Although Eloise is missing her sister (and grooming, playing with, and cuddling with Madeline), she is still as playful and affectionate as ever. “She loves playing with her ‘sparkle’ balls and anything that dangles on a stick or a piece of string,” Alicia says. “And she loves to sit on my lap, especially when I’m typing on my laptop.”
And she doesn’t just answer to “Eloise.” She’s a cat of many nicknames, including “Elo-weezer-so fun to tease her! Cuz she’s Eloweezer,” “Elly LuLu,” and “Eloise Lu, I love you.” One other nickname, though, explains her alpha female personality: Little Napoleana.
“For a runt, she will act tough and pick on her sister, who was bigger than her,” Alicia explains. “Eloise would walk up to Madeline and swat her with her paw. She also has an extremely loud, emphatic meow when she’s upset or hungry. She’s currently missing Madeline and will walk around meowing like there’s no tomorrow.”
And when she’s hungry, it’s treats, especially chicken, that Eloise craves. “She’ll eat anything she can get her paws on,” Alicia says.
Alicia has been bringing Eloise (and Madeline) to Rainier Veterinary Hospital for more than five years. “I love the staff,” she says. “They’ve been so lovely, especially when I had to put Madeline to sleep.”
Losing a pet—a member of the family—is never easy, and we are so sorry for your loss, Alicia. We’re so glad that you and Eloise are a part of our family.
About Our Cat of the Month Program
Here’s how our Cat of the Month program works: Each staff member provides a nomination for the distinguished honor, and then we vote. The highest vote wins! Any kitty patients who visit us during the prior month are eligible.
