I want to share an update about this adoption, because Marcus is a very special creature who has made a world of difference in our family. The name stuck: my Mum’s quite a fan of Marcus Aurelius, and felt it bodes good energy in her companion. With that said, a stoic, he is not!

While looking for a cat companion for my Mum (who lives alone) we came across Marcus. There was something about his adoption photos that hooked our hearts: He was, admittedly, a little gnarly looking, but he had beautiful, soulful eyes and my Mum felt instantly connected to the guy. So home he came.

Initially, it was a few weeks of challenge, with Marcus largely hiding and too afraid to venture beyond his favourite box. The tone set by both the foster and Toronto Humane Society gave ample warning that he may not ever fully develop into a “lap cat” — And that was okay!

Week three or so, though, he just shifted, found some courage and safety and almost immediately became a true “Velcro cat”. Now he adores cuddles, strokes, constant and undivided attention, rigorous playtime and food—Always food, man, he’s filled out.

My Mum has lived alone since my Dad passed about a decade ago. Naturally, she been a bit down. I can’t express enough the gratitude my brother and I have for you folks for doing what you do. With Marcus by her side, she’s got a renewed pep and always another Marcus story to share (he’s mischievous, loving, and wholly devoted to her).

He’s doing fantastically. They both are. I keep telling her to write because this is why adoption exists and y’all should get all the praise for the energy you put into these sweet souls. So she might, she might not, but she just sent a photo and it felt like the right time.

Endless Thanks from our family to you all. He’s still kinda gnarly, and he’s definitely a Brown.