I know that growl all too well. We took in a number of strays over the years. Yes, it’s easier to adopt kittens than older cats, but not impossible. But with some feral cats, after they’ve been outside fending for themselves, come to realize they have food, shelter, and love. Some cats we took in bond faster than others.. they got their shots, declawed, and fixed. Some remained aloof, others became so friendly they always want to sleep on my lap.
Once we had an older cat named Jasper. He was a big 12 pound baby. He loved me so much , he loved being picked up he had a pure like a lawnmower. One outdoor cat had a litter of kittens. We brought them in so they wouldn’t get cold.
Jasper hated one kitten, he always growled and hissed whenever the kitten came close. Jasper never attacked him, but showed how possessive and territorial cats can be.
We eventually found homes for the kittens, and Mommy stayed outside, but she got fixed. Cats can have up to three litters a year, and there were no shortage of outdoor cats that would want to be daddies.
A few died of old age. Once they hit fifteen, they’re on borrowed time. But I’m grateful how much love they gave. Thank you Jasper, Patches, Peanut, and Tigger. Thank you for your purrs and pets.