We all know neighbor cats can be an interesting bunch. Their sly antics and nefarious plots to try and seduce us under their prowess never cease to amaze.
Most try to avoid us and simply search through trash and other smelly places for food.
Billy the cat is an exception to the rule.
His owner, Zack King, allows his 1-year-old cat explores his neighborhood with complete freedom. In the midst of his journeys, Zack constantly wonders what his furry best friend is up to.
“He’s inquisitive, feisty and confident,” King told The Dodo. “He loves to relax and when he sleeps, he sleeps. But usually, he’s in and out of his cat flap all day coming to say ‘hello’ before going off to play and explore again.”
Zack always imagined that Billy would just be acting aloof around his environment and mostly staying to himself, as he tends to not be too interactive with his surroundings.
Little did he know that Billy had plans of his own.
One breezy autumn day, Billy arrived from one of his routine outdoor expeditions with something attached to his collar.
It was a note written by one of King’s neighbors.
King and his girlfriend, Olga, proceeded to carefully unfold the small piece of paper to read its contents.
The note read:
“Your cat likes to come visit us when he is outside. He will sit at the door and meow to be let in. It’s actually hilarious and we love him! We have no idea where he’s coming from. What’s his name? We call him Billy. From your friendly neighbors!”
The neighbors somehow correctly guessed the name of King’s cat!
“I wouldn’t have thought of doing that myself but was really pleased to receive such a cute note just to let us know that Billy likes to hang with other human friends and is well-liked,” King said.
Olga figured she should write back and respond by attaching another note to Billy’s collar. There was no way of telling if the message would reach the right folks, but it was worth a shot anyway.
Incredibly, Billy knew just where to go.
The note found its way back to the amicable neighbors who followed up on the communication thread. Both parties quickly engaged in more communication and quickly befriended as a result.
With Billy as the acting “carrier pigeon”, the neighbors exchanged Netflix recommendations, podcast suggestions, and even home recipes!
“We’ve shared TV and Netflix recommendations, podcast suggestions and home cooking ideas,” King said. “We have no idea who or where the neighbor is. We could ask for details but [there’s] no need — it’s nice to have some mystery sometimes.”
It’s been a huge relief to know that Billy has helped King and Olga build a human connection with strangers, especially in a time through quarantine.
“We were in a bit of a slump as the nights got colder and darker and restrictions and lockdowns kept us at home, so it was a real joy.” King said. “To be honest, Billy’s a joy anyway. But this was something unexpected, intriguing and very welcome indeed!”
As the cold winter approached, Billy was released less and less due to the blistering weather.
Communication between the two neighbors has reduced, but hopefully, Billy will have many more playdates with his newly acquired friends in the future.
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