I’m sorry I am so late to this thread but you have done an amazing job with these kitties. Pumpkin deserves to win. It is my personal experience that cats do come where they sense they can trust, love and are needed. I have many kitties here and have adopted out many. All began as ferals. I read your description of the bond between Pumpkin and Midnight. I have seen the same bonds here between ferals. It is a beautiful thing and we are privileged to see it. As for the swatting of the hand, I suspect Pumpkin came to watch you sleep and was startled to see a hand reach out. Cats like to observe us when we pose no threat and no pursuit or pressure. If Pumpkin is not used to being petted, she has made her advance towards being closer. I hate to say I have not read your whole thread. I have been dealing with much here but just keep doing all you have been doing. It’s obvious that you are doing it all right. I hope Pumpkin is always inside only but if you must have an outdoor space, a catio is the safe way to go.
Beautiful Pumpkin! A winner in my opinion ,no matter what!
Beautiful Pumpkin! A winner in my opinion ,no matter what!