Chub-a-Lubs, Your Average Short Haired Domestic Cat-To Me, My Heart

by Nicole Fuentes
(Belmont, CA, USA)

When we found you at the shelter, you had already been there for 6 months, surrendered by your owner because you were not consistent with using the litterbox. You were very overweight, 10 years old, and looked so sad. We knew that the likelihood of you being adopted was low so we took you home. You were understandably weary at first, shy, and scared. After a bit of love and patience, your personality took shape. All you wanted was a home to call your own. Lots of commotion and loud noise scared you and sent your running.

You weren't very happy about the other cats in the household but you adjusted and even tolerated them too. By the time you were 12 you began to lose weight and you were my "lil old man" of the house. Never a lap cat, but you did love to be brushed, have your face and ears scratched, and to be talked to. You loved to follow us around the house, especially in the mornings while we were in the bathroom getting ready for work, you would watch and talk to us.

At 15 years old, how quickly your health failed, I didn't even have a chance to save you. I am so sorry. Your liver was failing and you were suffering. There was no guarantee that treatment would work and I didn't want you to hurt any longer. I feel that I failed you. Putting you to sleep was the hardest choice I have ever had to make. I miss you every morning. I miss you when I see your empty cat bed. I will always remember you and the lesson you taught me....the lesson that older cats have so much love to offer and shouldn't be overlooked. I love you and will never forget you....1995 to 06-23-08