Around a year ago, we were looking to get a kitten. At the time, we were mostly interested in finding a companion pet and were hoping to provide a loving home for a rescue. After some searching, we came across a system of foster homes designed to help find homes for cats.
A mixed litter caught our attention and within minutes of meeting the kittens, we knew Mango Would be accompanying us on the trip back home. He was unafraid, energetic and playful. We did not realize it at the time, but his curiosity would one day make him the awesome little adventure cat he is today.
As he grew older and bigger, his energy and curiosity seemed to grow with him. He was phased by very little and took our hectic lifestyle in stride. These observations led us to a unique idea that very positively changed both our lives and Mango’s.
We spend a good deal of time outdoors – hiking, camping, and canoeing among other activities. What if we were to take Mango With us? What if we put a cat in tent? A boat? Taught him to walk on a leash? It was a crazy idea but if any cat could handle it, it would be our Mango.
We spent months practicing in a harness and slowly exposing him to the outdoors. He went wherever we did. He quickly became accustomed to riding along in the car and going for short walks. Slowly, we made our way to local trails for longer and longer hikes. We knew he would do well, but we were surprised at just how well.
We decided it was time to move to bigger things! We took him on his very first camping trip this past summer. We hiked through mountains and forests. We ventured to waterfalls and streams.
He hiked from trail to trail without hesitation. He slept beside us in the tent. All the while, he was curious, patient and confident. The trip was a breeze for him. It was so exciting for us to be able to bring our friend and companion along on an adventure!
We continue to take Mango along on local hiking trips and bigger camping trips. He has learned to ride in a backpack when tired and jump back out when he’s ready to hike. He has even learned to kayak and canoe! Mango may be a tiny cat, but he is incredibly brave.
He has become a huge part of our lives and has been a wonderful addition to our tiny family. Our tiny rescue cat has made a large and happy impact on our lives! Our joy and adventures with Mango has led us to rescue another sweet cat named Luna To be a companion to Mango.
We Are so excited to see what the future holds and what new adventures are in store for all of us! – Megan And Chris (Mango’s humans)
To be a friend and see more of Mango’s adventures, follow this happy rescue cat @catnotafruit on Instagram.