Introducing Dusty and Oscar.
You will remember I lost Seth, my 16-year-old cat, earlier this year. My friend Crusher inherited some cats when he moved to a cottage in the hills, and since then, more kittens have arrived. I intended to maybe take a couple of his stock if his children allowed me. Being unable to drive for over two months put that on hold for practical reasons. However, this week, I have been signed off from the hospital. The nerve damage to my hand has improved to the extent that I can resume driving, so I have taxed my car and am ready for the road again.
A while back, I sent my family a picture of the cats, and they were keen to advise me on which ones to choose. 
In anticipation of the new arrivals, I borrowed a cage to put in my kitchen. I intend to keep them secure for a week or so until they are used to me and the house. They will also need microchipping and immunising. 
Friday.
I give Crusher a ring to see if they are at home. Yes, so I collect my cat basket and drive up. The feline population are sat around the yard, all very friendly. 
The children have developed strong attachments to most of the older cats, so I chose two of the younger ones: a male and a female. I think. Both are short-haired black kittens, the male with a white tuxedo and paws. Crusher’s children receive some money for their ‘piggy banks’, with the promise that they can come and visit anytime.
The two kittens are subdued by their transfer to Longridge but soon relax into their new shared bed, even though I provided one each.. They don’t seem interested in food; I will give them time to settle.
Saturday.
They seem pleased to see me in the morning. 
They haven’t eaten much, so I visit Sainsbury’s around the corner for some of that addictive Sheba food. That does the trick, and they are soon tucking in. 
I phone the vets to arrange for them to be seen next week. The veterinary nurses are sad to hear of Seth’s passing but look forward to meeting the new kittens. I think they are about 9 months old and that the female has been neutered.
What are their names? That puts me on the spot. They did have names from their previous home, but I didn’t register them in my mind. I have already decided to call the female Dusty because she is. And who didn’t like Dusty Springfield? (I visited her grave way back in 2018 whilst walking the Thames Path through Henley.) The male is a ‘tuxedo’ with a white chest and spats. My family had suggested Oscar, because you wear a tuxedo at the ceremony. Let’s go with that for the time being.
Sunday.
I’m around the house most of the day, so the two kittens have the freedom of the kitchen. Chasing balls under cupboards keeps them entertained. They enjoy exploring and, before long, find their way onto the table and worktops. As with all young animals, ‘playfighting’ goes on from time to time, but generally, they tolerate each other well. I’m not sure who is the dominant one. They are a little too fast for my phone camera.
They eat anything and everything now, take to the scratch tower and use the litter tray.
A busy day for them.
Monday. Back into the carrier for a trip to the vets who take to the new arrivals. Going from their weight, Grace thinks they may be a little younger than 9 months or more likely have not had their fair share of food amongst the other cats on the farm.
Dusty has been neutered, but Oscar will need dealing with later.
I had noticed earlier that they had the odd cough from time to time and mentioned this. Their chests are a bit wheezy, so perhaps they have a mild infection – hopefully not cat flu. Their vaccinations are delayed for two weeks until a dose of antibiotics and steroids has had time to work.
They both are chipped without any fuss.
I return home, a little poorer, but with the kittens still in good form, and it’s time for a little telly.
Let’s see what the coming weeks bring.
I’m so glad to read of this. I like that your chosen names have a raison d’être. I hope we will be reading more of their adventures shortly.
Also good to hear the nerve problem is on the mend. Back to the E grades before long?
Have actually been going up to Craig Y for some hand strengthening exercises in the good weather. Don’t know about E grades though.
Now I am able to drive will be dragging you out for a walk before long.
Delightful!
They will be good company.
Great names and love the shot of them sharing the bed. 🙂
I think they are cousins, though the family history is a little vague.
It’s good to know that your hand has improved so much BC, and even better to read that you have two adorable new companions. On the basis of the bed-sharing photo my favourite has to be Dusty, she looks so cute. For an occasional treat or a little extra to their normal food I can recommend Lick-e-Lix, a paste you squeeze out of a sachet – Mouse loves it and it’s gone in seconds 😺
Thanks for the tip Eunice.
Five sachets in a pack, squeeze it onto normal food or give it just as it is. I get them from Asda but I’m sure Sainsbury’s will have them.
These kittens are delightful! Looking forward to hearing more about them. Glad to hear the hand is finally on the mend.
Thanks. Welcome to a new dynasty.
Welcome to the family little kitties
Dusty – I gues she only wants to be with you (sic) 😂🤣😂🤢
You got it.
Excellent news all round. Love the names. And back on the road. Well done! 👍
Fast forwards.
Oh these two are so so cute. Actually Oscar reminds me a little of my Slinky Malinki ,with the tuxedo. She also can look quite brownish in some lighting.
I think they will be good company and great entertainment 😁.
And good to know you can now drive and get back to more adventures.
Thanks Sharon. The kittens are great fun.
I have become accustomed to using the bus to get around locally,but now can head further afield.
Cute kitten. You will be busy taking care of them. Lot of cuddles and play.
They are a joy, thanks.
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