Update: two weeks to the day the cat bit me. The wounds are almost healed. The cat continues to live in my garage, and has become very bonded to me. She meows at the back door. If I don't respond, she comes looking for me by peering in at the back door slider, or in my bedroom window. She kept me company all afternoon yesterday while I was gardening, sitting a couple of feet away, clear of the screw driver I was using to dig up weeds. She'd venture closer now and then for a rub against my legs or back. She will rub up under my open palms; I stay very still and don't move my hands while she is doing this, so as not to "spook" her.

In the past two days she will sit next to me and "guard" me. If someone walks down the street or the neighbors walk up their driveway, she lowers her head and growls deep in her throat...yes growls, like a dog! I'd never heard a cat growl before! She sounds like a miniature tiger!

Thanks to all who wrote with advice and information!

Blessings, Mayah