Gentle Paws, Open Hearts: A Visit with Feline Friends
Recently, I had the honor of sitting with a group of feline friends ranging in age from vibrant five-year-olds to those gracefully entering elderhood.
Whenever I visit this soulful crew, I begin the same way: I settle into a quiet seat on the floor meeting them where they are, take a few grounding breaths, and wait to see who chooses to greet me. Each time, the welcome is different—and always guided by them.
Lately, it’s been two of the five-year-olds, siblings I’ve known since they were just tiny kittens. Born as ferals, they experienced a wide range of challenges before arriving in their current loving home. Each cat connects in their own time and way—some with touch, some with simple shared presence.
This particular visit included those siblings, two wise elder females, a middle-aged male who acts as a devoted guardian, and one older gentleman who has gradually opened his heart recently within the last two years since his two brothers he arrived with passed.
Reiki in the Silence
I always begin by asking if they’re open to receiving Reiki. This time, they each responded with quiet affirmation. No need for music or additional ambiance—just energy, intention, and respect.
The Reiki flowed gently, without physical contact. I offered it from a distance, simply holding space and setting the intention that it reach each cat in the way most needed, for their highest and greatest good.
As we sat together, still and connected, the younger male—one of the siblings—rose from his spot beside me. With deliberate grace, he reached out and placed a single paw on my hand. His silent signal: I’m ready. He leaned into gentle face scratches and soft strokes along his sides—never the back, always his way.
Nourishment at the Heart Level
We meandered to the kitchen where two of the elder cats receive love in their favorite spot—right near the food area. For them, this space isn’t just about eating. It’s a place of nourishment, both physical and emotional.
It’s also the place where the older male first invited touch. From that moment on, this has been his chosen space for connection. He shares it with his cherished companion, a female who seeks her own love and attention, gently asking with her eyes and body.
The Language of Permission
Every cat has their rhythm. Their own dance of yes, maybe, or not right now.
Some play before they connect. Some ask for Reiki from across the room. Some invite you into their hearts only once they feel you’ve truly slowed down and are listening—not just with ears, but with soul.
What they’ve taught me is this: Connection is sacred. Presence is the invitation. Love is given, not taken.
