It’s Only a Cat

Today was not a good day for me. Today my cat passed away. I have had the pleasure of my cat’s company for 15 years now, which is quite a long time for a feline. I know, it’s only a cat. My cat has been with me through thick and thin and always stayed by my side, but it’s only a cat. Over the years I have heard coworkers talk about their dogs and others that recall sadly the day they had lost one. Sad indeed, but no less pain then if you lost your cat, which has been your constant companion and friend, but it’s only a cat, right? Almost everyone I know would be genuinely sad if I told them a dog had died. Mention that a cat has died and you usually get the typical response - it’s only a cat... 

Did you know that cats are more self-sufficient then dogs? When you go on vacation, you usually would hire a dog sitter or have someone take care of your dog. Not so for cats. As long as they have food, water, and a litter box, they are good to go. They don’t need you, you need them, but I know, it’s only a cat. Dogs need you, they depend on you, and some even wine for you. Cats could care less but somehow they know when you need them, and then they are there, your furry companion for life. But it’s only a cat, right?

Today, as I was standing in the veterinarian’s office, I couldn’t help but notice all the dog pictures on the walls. Most of them were tributes to pets that had passed away. Sad indeed, but no less pain then the loss of a cat, my cat, my buddy, my furry companion. I guess I just don't get some folks attitude towards our feline friends, especially from the ones who own other pets. To each their own, but the bias was apparent even in the vet's office. More than likely because... it’s only a cat.

A lot of people own dogs and really care about them. I know how they feel even though I only have cats. A pet is a pet. Cat or dog, the pain is all too real when your animal dies. So to all the people out there who think or say “it’s only a cat”, think again! Just because “it’s only a cat” doesn’t mean that the pain of losing them is any less, or the love for them is any less than that for another pet, be it a dog, horse, or any other animal that the good Lord has given us. It’s not only a cat, it’s my cat, and I will miss her.

Bologney
April 26,1999 - Feb 28,2014