Bad Pic: Shutter 1/200 aperture f9
Good Pic: Shutter 1/60 aperture f4

I hadn't thought of the metering, but that does make sense with the black kitten and the brighter rose.

Any suggestions to fix?

In answer to another question you asked i have not tried this flash on its manual settings but I am game if that would help.

Thanks- you are awesome and kingly!

Tori