Why We Chose Patience Over TNR
Some Cats Just Need Time: An Update on Two Very Special Snider Kitties
Back in late March, we found ourselves standing at the edge of Snider Road, staring at a reality no rescuer ever forgets — a cat who didn’t make it. That moment flipped a switch. We couldn’t look away, and we couldn’t do nothing.
That’s how the Snider Kitties story began.
What followed were traps, long nights, and a whole lot of “okay, we’ll figure this out.” We trapped several cats from the area — some who needed TNR, some who needed medical care, and a couple who quietly told us, “I don’t think I’m meant for street life.”
This blog is about two of those cats, Houdini & Sister Purrs.
Why We Didn’t Just TNR Them
TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) is an incredible, lifesaving tool — and for some cats, it’s the best option. Cats like Scary Spice and Big Mama reminded us of that.
They were strong, street-smart, and very clear about their boundaries. After raising their kittens to a healthy point and giving us weeks of honest effort, it became clear: they belonged outside, just safer, fixed, and cared for. So that’s what we did.
But these two?
They were different.
They were young. Roughly a year old. Curious. Afraid — but not unreachable. They’d freeze instead of flee. Watch instead of attack. Sometimes they’d even lean in… then panic about it.
That’s when we made the call: we’re keeping them and putting in the work.
The Long, Slow Middle (Where the Real Work Happens)
Rehabilitating cats like this isn’t a montage. There’s no overnight transformation. It’s months of:
- Sitting quietly
- Speaking softly
- Moving slowly
- Celebrating microscopic wins
At first, humans were terrifying. Eye contact? Nope. Sudden movement? Absolutely not. Hands were suspicious. Very suspicious.
And honestly? That’s okay.
Trust doesn’t come from rushing — it comes from consistency.
The Milestones That Mean Everything
Here’s where the magic starts to show up.
They began asking for food, communicating with us.
Then they stopped hiding immediately, sister purrs hissed less and less.
They were spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and did amazing.
Then one day — the first pet happened. Followed by a kitty kiss (lick!)
Not confidently. Not casually. But it happened.
And now? Sister Purrs will accept pets. She’ll head pop you and even lean into them sometimes. They purr. They play. They show off their very real personalities once they feel safe.
They’re sweet. They’re funny. They’re observant little souls who clearly want love — they just need reassurance that it won’t disappear.
. 
They Were Never Meant for the Streets
You can tell when a cat was never built for outdoor survival. These two didn’t have the edge for it. They had the heart for something more.
They like routine. Warmth. Calm voices. They want connection — they’re just learning how to trust it.
And if it takes longer than expected? That’s fine. We’re not in a hurry.
The Right Home Could Change Everything
These cats still have a journey ahead of them — but with the right person, that journey could speed up in the best way.
If you know someone who:
- Has patience
- Understands shy or fearful cats
- Believes slow progress is still progress
- Has a quiet home and a lot of love
We’re absolutely open to talking about adopting sooner. Sometimes, one dedicated human makes all the difference.
Why We Do This
Not every rescue story is flashy.
Some are quiet.
Some take months.
Some require more patience than most people realize.
But these are the stories that matter most.
Because when a cat finally chooses trust — after everything they’ve been through — it’s worth every single moment.
We’ll keep sharing updates as these two continue to grow, learn, and blossom. Thank you for being part of their story 🐾💛