Chester had a fun-filled 10 days with his new-found friend, Franklin at our friend's apartment. After a settling-in period, they realized it was better for everyone to become friends. Chester was actually only supposed to spend a couple days at Frank's, but they were having so much fun, he stayed there the whole time instead. Here are some pictures we were provided with...
Chester was dropped back off at our place a few hours before we got back and was there to greet us when we returned. He did so by popping out by the door, then running under the bed for a few hours and refusing to come out.
Once he did come out, we realized that this little kitty had gained 3 WHOLE POUNDS! That's an impressive feat for a person in 10 days, but for a 10 pound kitty? I hope he didn't eat all of Franklin's food...or Franklin for that matter. Holy cow.
So, our pudgy little lovebird is SO relieved we are home. He follows me around every step I take and will not rest until he is on my lap or face or in some kind of contact. He has yet to stop purring since we've arrived. Someone missed us.
He also was an oily-matted mess. He's usually VERY conscientious of his appearance and is well groomed at all times. It seems as though he was so upset at us being gone that he gave up on that for the week. At least on his back and sides. Poor boy just let himself go.
I spent 2 hours brushing him and trying to make his coat less greasy, then hours upon hours snuggling him. He is back on a diet, and happily grooming himself while sure to always be next to one of us.
The good news is, that after the mess we went through with airlines both there and back, I am settled on never traveling again (at least for a while) so he doesn't have to be so anxious for a long time to come.
I guess if I ever had doubts that he loved us, they are now quelled.