Our furry, feline companions
Our cats are pretty darn cute, which even visitors declare when they see our two males wander into the room. Leo is the youngest, and if you'd like to see pictures of him when he was really little, see below. For the photo tribute to Yuri's first birthday, click on his page. Otherwise, check out the cats page for current photos.
Leo the Lion
Actually, his real name is Leon. But we call him Leo for short. He joined our family when he was just two weeks old...so it was rough going at the beginning. Our neighbor found his litter in her backyard, and brough them inside to feed them and keep them warm. We couldn't resist adopting one, but didn't realize at first how young he really was. We fed him cat milk and wet food, but he probably needed to be bottle-fed for a good week or two. Fortunately, he rallied and grew strong, although emotionally he was very dependent on us. Over time, he shed the fuzzy fur and chrome-dome head and began to resemble a sleek, handsome cat. But he still loves to be held like a baby, and he also has a bit of a weakness for blankets—he likes to suckle them. Otherwise, he is very playful and loves to play tag with his older brother. Seems like he's turning out okay, although we wouldn't recommend adopting such a young kitten if you can help it! There's a reason they're supposed to stay with their mothers for the first six weeks! Anyway, some photos of our young ball of fur:
Leo and siblings at two-weeks old
He bonded with us right away
After coming home with us, the first order of business was a bath!
Yuri investigates this new family member
The males are hanging out (Leo almost blends into Nate's shirt)
He had an oversized forehead when he was little
Big claws for such a small cat!
Leo was never even remotely scared of Yuri
The little one enjoys some freedom (we kept him in the bathroom for the first month)
What a cute little package!
Ugh, another bath
Playing with Yuri
Looks like they've bonded!
This is the way he still likes to be held now
Yuri's teaching him to appreciate an open window
It's amazing he could fit into this small space!
A spontaneous nap
Leo shows his penchant for baskets
Snoozing with Dad
He loves to be on top of us, literally!
This was too cute to miss a photo op
What cat can resist an open shopping bag?
Boxes and baskets; perfect for a small cat
Finding mischief in the Christmas tree
Exhausted from playing with all those ribbons!
Plastic, paper or cloth—doesn't matter to him
Hanging out in the dryer—can you turn on the fluff cycle?
Score, another basket to snuggle in!
Last updated 5/08 | The Paine Family © 2008 All Rights Reserved