Boots the Cat Overcomes
Hind End Paralysis and Learns to Bond
Jim had experienced the benefits of the Feldenkrais Method® in eliminating his own back pain. So, when his cat suddenly began dragging her hind end and her vet could offer no explanation or cure, he wondered if SENSE Method could help.
Boots, a beautiful Maine Coon with large green eyes, had been semi-feral for 11 of her 13 years. Although Jim lovingly cared for her and hoped she would be a lap cat, Boots wanted no part of human contact. It was no surprise then, that Boots began to hiss and growl as I approached her. Unfettered, I used my voice soothingly and my touch discretely. In fact, I used the soft eraser end of a pencil to touch Boots. It was only when she became comfortable with that touch that I actually contacted her with my hand. In time, Boots relaxed and was eventually purring in my lap.
I worked all along Boots' back, giving her the opportunity to become more aware of her entire spine. Though my touch, I connected Boots' front and hind ends. As I finished the session, Jim encouraged Boots to come to him. We both looked on in amazement as she used her hind legs to propel herself off my lap and walk over to him with characteristic feline dignity.
But perhaps the most rewarding result of our session was that Boots began to enjoy human touch. This pleased Jim tremendously, and Boots is often seen nestled in his lap, purring.
"My cat had lost the ability to use her hind legs. The vet was at a loss. Mary had her walking again after one session. It would be hard to believe it if I hadn't seen it myself!"
--Jim S., San Juan Capistrano, CA
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