Chapter 1: The Bond We Share

The heartache that accompanies the loss of our beloved felines is profound. It begs the question: why do we choose to love them at all?

Photograph by the Author

There’s a popular saying that “all you need is love and a cat.” I didn’t fully appreciate this until later in life. Growing up, we had dogs, and I vividly recall the tears my mother shed when our miniature wirehaired Dachshund passed away. I tried to console her by suggesting we could adopt another dog, but she replied that the pain of loss was too great, and she would never go through it again.

In 2016, we welcomed two lovely Siberian kittens into our home. On the very first morning, as I walked into the kitchen, one of them rushed towards me, purring and nuzzling into my arms. It astonished me that, after what must have been a harrowing night, he felt safe enough to show affection right away.

From that moment, an unbreakable connection was formed, a daily ritual that continues to this day. Each morning, this cat, our first, cuddles with me for ten minutes, showering me with unconditional love before we start our day. It’s a routine I cherish deeply.

Cats possess an incredible gentleness, despite their sharp claws and teeth. Each nuzzle from my cat reminds me of the words of James Herriot, the renowned Yorkshire vet and author, who noted:

“I have felt cats rubbing their faces against mine and touching my cheek with claws carefully sheathed. These things, to me, are expressions of love.”

Our second cat had a special bond with our youngest son, who was just ten years old at the time. This cat would curl up in his lap while he watched TV, purring contentedly even as my son playfully tugged at his fur.

For nine blissful months, everything seemed perfect, and I began to question my mother’s fears about the pain of loving pets. However, one morning, our second cat became ill, refusing to eat for several days. A visit to the vet followed, where blood tests were conducted.

After a tense three-day wait, the call came. The vet delivered the devastating news: our second cat had FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis).

“What does that mean?” I inquired, my heart sinking.

“The kindest option is to put him to sleep,” the vet replied softly.

Our family was heartbroken. Just one week before his first birthday, our second cat’s life was cut tragically short.

We gathered around as the vet administered the injection. Our second cat made a small yelp, and that was the end.

This loss hit our youngest son especially hard; he cried himself to sleep for several nights. It reminded me of the cliché that no one can truly comprehend the bond we forge with our feline companions until they experience the pain of losing one.

Initially, I found myself resonating with my mother’s views, questioning whether the anguish of loss outweighed the joy of companionship. Yet, in time, we healed. My connection with our first cat deepened, and we welcomed a new Siberian kitten into our family, who adores our first cat even more than our late one did. In hindsight, it seemed that everything worked out as it should.

Ultimately, the passing of our second cat became a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time spent with our furry friends. We must cherish every moment because to love them is to embrace our humanity. Their love in return underscores the strength of our bond.

Some argue that cats cannot love unconditionally, but I firmly disagree. Every morning, my first cat demonstrates this love through gentle nuzzles, purring, and a desire to simply be close to me.

In those precious moments, I can contextualize the potential pain of loss. It is indeed worth it. However, I still dread the day we must part, often recalling the quote: “Heaven will never be paradise unless my cats are there waiting for me.”

Chapter 2: The Heart's Dilemma

The first video titled "How dare you touch a cat other than me in front of me?" humorously explores the possessive nature of feline love and the dynamics of cat ownership.

The second video, "How dare you!" delves into the passionate reactions of cats when their space or affection is threatened, showcasing their endearing yet fierce loyalty.