The loss of a pet ~ a tribute to Cassidy

I found our quirky boy Cassidy lying in the yard this morning. It only took an instant to know he had passed away. He was lying on his side, like he'd decided to lie in the sun - though it wasn't one of usual lounging spots - peacefully, but not breathing. He was still warm, and today is chilly. I'd like to think he had sudden cardiac death or other quick way of dying. There was no sign of trauma, no sign of struggle. And while I am sad, I am grateful he went suddenly. I wish I had been there to hold him and let him know he was loved.

2009

 

He was a fat and somewhat neurotic cat, but he *loved* me as much as cats can love people. He was a mommy's boy. He loved to be brushed on his left side, but hated to have his right side groomed. Like really, really hated it. He preferred to lie on his right side, so naturally this was the side that needed the most attention.

 

He got along well with the dogs and our other cat (Arthur). He knew who belonged in our pack, and who didn't.

2011

 

Cassidy came to us via our neighbor Dick, who adopted him as a stray, mature cat. He gave him to us when he was moving away to live on his boat. So he's quite old, though I don't have any idea how old. He wanted so much to be an inside cat, but his need to mark his territory wasn't popular. So he had a little house outside, on the deck, just outside the kitchen door.

 

We buried him in the back yard, under the cedar tree.