ANIMALS
What Makes The ‘Gray Goat’ Stray Kitten So Special?
Ever found yourself pondering over a creature with four legs, a tail, and big eyes? Could it be a goat? Well, surprise—it’s a cat! The line blurs easily between these two, given the shared traits. But fear not, we’re not here to pull your leg, unlike a goat amusingly tugging on a cat’s ear—a tale we’re set to explore.
Picture a curious kitten strolling onto a quaint farmstead, captivated by the enigmatic allure of goats. Its fascination leads to a whimsical decision—to fully embrace the laid-back, “baa”-utiful goat life! The delightful saga comes courtesy of Jan Goswick, the farm’s owner, as shared with the kind folks at Bored Panda. You heard it here first, and yes, puns are as inevitable as a goat’s penchant for mischief.
So, if you’ve braved through the dad-joke storm, dear reader, stay with us! Share your thoughts in the comments, give a nod to the story, and consider a following if the author’s style resonates with you. Ready to dive into this capricious adventure? Let’s go(at)!
On a bright afternoon, when Jan Goswick went to inspect her goats, she observed a small, gray bundle of fluff and discovered that a kitten had ventured into the enclosure.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
On a sun-drenched afternoon, Jan Goswick embarked on her routine check of the goat domain, little expecting the delightful surprise awaiting her. Resting on a dog hammock, typically claimed by the goats, was a petite gray bundle of fluff. Initially mistaking it for a stuffed toy, Jan’s attempt to lift it resulted in a lively escape – the “toy” was, in fact, a spirited kitten that had stealthily infiltrated the pen.
Small enough to cradle in her hand, the feline effortlessly weaved through the fence holes, prompting a playful pursuit from Jan. Despite her efforts, the elusive kitten vanished for a brief 30 minutes before reappearing, comfortably nestled beside the goats. Thus unfolded the charming chronicles of GG, the Gray Goat, marking the onset of adventures that couldn’t have arrived at a more opportune moment.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Jan and her husband made the delightful decision to embrace parenthood with Nigerian Dwarf goats. The initial additions to their family were Marvin and Peanut, and their hearts were instantly captivated by these charming creatures.
Image credits: jangoswick
Jan and her husband embarked on a new chapter, deciding to welcome Nigerian Dwarf goats into their home. With their children having flown the nest to forge their paths, and their residence positioned at the cul-de-sac’s end with a generous two-and-a-half acres of land, the couple saw an opportune moment to make the most of their space.
In the brisk November of 2020, they welcomed their initial duo of goats, affectionately named Peanut and Marvin. Reflecting on the experience, Jan expressed a depth of affection beyond expectation, saying, “We knew we would love the goats, but I truly did not anticipate how much I would love these boys.” Describing them as intelligent, entertaining, and the epitome of affectionate, Jan developed a special connection with Marvin, captivated by his incredible personality, a blend of humor and strong-willed charm.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Regrettably, Marvin’s sudden demise left Jan in sorrow. To provide companionship for Peanut, Jan decided to acquire two additional baby goats. Despite these efforts, the lingering grief and sadness endured until the arrival of an unexpected kitten.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Regrettably, Marvin met an untimely end in an unexpected accident. The tragedy deeply affected Jan, leaving her “absolutely devastated.” Despite the grief, she found herself needing to make swift decisions for the well-being of Peanut.
Jan emphasized the crucial social nature of goats, stating, “Goats cannot be alone; they must be with at least one other goat.” She highlighted the often underestimated fragility of goats, expressing concern that the stress of losing Marvin and Peanut’s solitude could have fatal consequences for the latter.
Fortunately, a compassionate individual from a Facebook group extended a helping hand. This stranger offered to take Peanut in, integrating him with her goats until Jan could arrange for more company. Acting promptly, Jan located two baby goat siblings purchased them, and brought them home the following day.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Peanut forged bonds with the cat and new siblings, easing the loss of Marvin.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
“Peanut grappled with the absence of Marvy, his usual playful demeanor replaced by a noticeable struggle. This change also affected my connection with the two new babies, as my concerns for Peanut overshadowed the joy I once found in spending time with the goats. The dynamic had shifted since Marvy’s departure, and while I understood the need for patience, recapturing the previous sense of happiness proved challenging.
Then, about a week and a half later, the arrival of a gray kitten named GG brought a positive turn. GG consistently accompanied the goats, engaging in playful activities, teasing, and even sharing nightly rests with them. It was GG’s presence that seemed to trigger a transformation in Peanut, who gradually returned to his former self. Peanut’s interactions with GG created a ripple effect, with all three goats now enjoying playful moments together. This not only marked Peanut’s return to his playful nature but also allowed me to relish once again in the companionship of Jan and the goats, as a newfound bond began to take shape among us.”
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Turning to neighbors, they inquired about a missing cat, but no leads surfaced. Jan expressed, “I know in my heart he was meant to mend my heart and Peanut’s as well.” Despite this destiny, the kitten maintained a distance from the human family for a prolonged two weeks. The plot thickened when another stressful situation emerged.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
The family inquired with their neighbors about a lost kitten. However, since there were no clues to its owner, they chose to adopt it and affectionately named the feline Gray Goat, or GG for short.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
As Jan spent time with the boys, she noticed Peanut was lethargic and unresponsive. Upon closer examination, she identified a grave issue – Peanut was suffering from bloat, a life-threatening condition where gases accumulate in the abdomen. Recognizing the urgency, Jan knew timely and proper intervention was crucial to prevent a fatal outcome.
With determination, Jan committed to an overnight vigil, tirelessly encouraging Peanut to walk despite his condition. The goat yard’s covered swing transformed into an impromptu refuge, complete with a pillow for Jan during Peanut’s moments of rest. The night unfolded as a testament to Jan’s unwavering dedication to her ailing companion.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
While GG seldom strayed far from the goats, he took his time getting accustomed to the family. It required a little over two weeks, during which Jan spent a night outdoors caring for Peanut.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
“After successfully helping Peanut regain his ability to walk, I settled onto the swing, overwhelmed with emotion as my concern for my beloved dog’s well-being lingered. Tears streamed down my face at the thought of losing him. In that vulnerable moment, something struck my leg, and to my surprise, GG, our feline companion, had leaped onto the swing and perched on my chest. It marked the first instance he had allowed us to make physical contact. GG remained nestled on my chest until I rose to attend to Peanut, faithfully awaiting my return each time I came back to rest.
As the night unfolded, Peanut managed to relieve the gas buildup and experienced a complete recovery. From that pivotal moment onward, GG exhibited a newfound affection, seeking solace by snuggling up to either Jan or her husband, or eagerly joining them on their trips to the goats. “GG would stealthily position himself behind a tree, and as we passed by, he would dart out, racing up to the gate to patiently await our arrival,” Jan recounted. “He also accompanied us down to the house every night after securing the goats for the night. About halfway to the house, he would abruptly turn, sprint back up to the goats, and gracefully climb into their pen.”
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Presently, their fold comprises five Nigerian Dwarf goats, or six if you include GG. The kitten, initially petite upon discovering the enclosure, gradually integrated into the pack dynamic with the goats. Jan observes, “GG acts just like the goats, and we think he believes he is a goat.”
Fondly reminiscing, Jan shared, “One of GG’s favorite pastimes was hiding in the grass, or behind something, and jumping out to attack one of the boys when they walked by.” Laughter punctuates the memory of these playful antics, highlighting the endearing camaraderie that has evolved among the unlikely companions.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
An intriguing tale unfolds of GG’s stealthy escapades. The family habitually secures their goats in an enclosure at night for added safety. Mystified by how the kitten managed to join the goats for their nightly rest, Jan initiated an investigative move. A trail camera was strategically positioned in the shelter one night.
In recounting the discovery, Jan shared, “The next morning, I was reviewing the videos.” A sudden shake and movement of the camera unveiled GG’s covert maneuver. The revelation? GG, the cunning feline, had mastered the art of climbing a nearby tree after the goats were secured. He would then access the shelter from above through openings designed for airflow. The night unfolded with GG nestled beside the goats, and just before the shelter opened for the day, he executed a sly exit, leaving behind the secret of his nocturnal adventures.
A month later, GG contracted an eye infection. Following a veterinary examination, it was established that the kitten was critically unwell and required an extended period indoors.
Image credits: jangoswick
The kitten’s idyllic goat companionship took an unexpected turn when an eye infection prompted a vet’s intervention. Diagnosing GG with a respiratory infection, the veterinarian prescribed indoor rest. Jan remarked, “He hated it!! But we wanted him to get better.”
During his convalescence, GG spent his days staring longingly out the back door, fixated on the goat pen. Although initial signs of improvement emerged, unforeseen complications surfaced, leading the vet to a decisive conclusion – GG’s outdoor adventures were to be curtailed permanently.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Following additional complications, they concluded that GG should be confined indoors, much to GG’s displeasure. However, the situation improved when they welcomed Pickles into the household.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Given the intense aversion the kitten harbored to residing indoors and being separated from its companions, the family opted to welcome another cat into their home to provide company for GG. Jan shared, “We named the new addition Pickles, and they’ve developed a wonderful friendship.” She reassured me that “GG exhibits the same level of exuberance indoors as he did with the boys.”
Despite GG now being an indoor cat, he still maintains connections with the goats. The older goats make occasional visits to the back door, while the young goats, not yet ready to join the adults, share a pen with the cats inside the house. Jan expressed her hope that “GG, accompanied by his best friend Pickles, will continue to thrive as an indoor cat and enjoy a long and joyful life with us.”
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Presently, GG enjoys visits from his goat family at the back door, fostering a heartwarming connection. Occasionally, the household witnesses delightful scenes of baby goats sharing indoor moments with the cats.
Image credits: crazyeyedjanny
Jan began showcasing her boys and GG on TikTok, never anticipating the substantial growth it would achieve. A staggering 105.4k individuals eagerly await their content. Jan expressed her delight, stating, “It’s truly amazing” to witness the expanding followership and receive messages expressing love for her pets. “They bring me immense happiness, and I’m thrilled to see others finding joy in them as well.”
In their pursuit of support for medical bills and the possibility of an outdoor enclosure for GG’s reunion with his goat family, the family has established a GoFundMe page.
Image credits: jangoswick
A GoFundMe page has been established recently to assist in covering medical expenses. It aims to provide support for Jan and her family, potentially contributing to the realization of an outdoor enclosure. This enclosure would enable GG to reconnect with the beloved goats he cherishes. We extend our best wishes to Jan and her family, anticipating that this marks the commencement of a beautiful journey. Feel free to share your thoughts and impressions in the comments below, and I wish you a delightful and goat-filled day!
