In Memory of Ruby 4/21/2007 – 11/11/2023
Just as sweet as can be, that was our Ruby!
Ruby was adopted when she was very young way back in 2007. We don’t know the story but Ruby was turned in to Austin Animal Center in 2015 by someone who said they could no longer care for her. Original adopter not found.
There are two things to know about Shadow Cats and the care we have for all our cats always. First, on their microchip, we are always listed as first contact even when adopted, for this very reason. Second, we stand by the phrase “Once a Shadow Cat, Always a Shadow Cat”. No matter what!
We opened our hearts and arms to welcome Ruby back home. Shy and reserved and a little hesitant at first, still scared, she spent her early days back home getting to know us again and her roommates. It did not take too long before Ruby decided she was home and became more relaxed and her sweet nature started to blossom.
Before we moved to the new sanctuary she enjoyed her days relaxing and chilling! But when we moved to our new digs, a different kitty emerged! She was even sweeter, if that was possible, and she became part of the tabby gang in Harmony. Always thought of as still a shy girl, this suddenly disappeared! She became a little more adventurous, no longer content to blend in, she wanted to be a little more where the action was.
Her mischievous side started to show. One day we knew all the doors to Harmony had been closed, but amazingly the door was open and several cats were in the workroom! How did that happen? Our Ruby opened the doors and let them all in – we have the videotape for proof! 😊
Ruby had a soft side and loved to be held like a baby, so we would dance with her. She loved being petted and brushed, her soft purr saying she approved!
A friendly girl, she got along with all her roommates. Yes, her life has been full; she enjoyed every moment, our sweet pretty girl. Everyone that met her, kitties and humans alike, loved her.
Ruby has weathered many medical issues along the way. She now has inoperable kidney stones, kidney disease, diabetes, and chronic urinary issues. She never had a complaintive meow to give us when we checked her glucose, gave her meds, or gave her fluids. She was the best patient, an incredible cat.
For the last 8 years being back home, we know Ruby has lived a great life, her best life. She is now 16 and battling ill health. The look in her eyes tells us she is tired, the battle is too much and she cannot stay any longer. It’s time for us to let her go, but we will never forget the tender love we have in our hearts for our sweet Ruby girl. Tears have fallen as we say goodbye, but we smile and celebrate her life. Our Ruby, our sweet, pretty, gentle Ruby, we will miss you so very much sweetheart. Fly high on your wings.
We believe that in life, all we can hope for is to live a long one, to feel fulfilled, and to be surrounded by the people and animals we love. Ruby has had that.
Thanks always to our amazing staff for their daily care of Ruby. Thanks to our veterinarians. Thanks to our volunteers and her sponsors for their love. Thanks to our Sanctuary Manager Sarah for many beautiful words about our Ruby.
Ruby had 4 Sponsors
Chiemi Perry
Shanna Lott
Whitney and Carl Magnusson
Jennifer Bristow