I'm sitting in my computer room- an odd occasion now that I have my laptop. Usually I stay in my bedroom when I'm online. But right now I'm sticking close to Leo, because if he should pass and I'm not around, I'll never forgive myself. Leo, my cat of 14 years, has been with me since he was a kitten. He has always been feisty and opinionated, but his distinctive personality is actually quite endearing. Without a lick of white fur on him, Leo could double as a panther. Well, a small panther. A small panther that just happens to look like a house cat. I guess maybe what I mean is that he has panther mentality. Protective and territorial, he has always been top dog around here. I remember it very clearly. I was wearing a black sweater with green shimmery threads the day I visited the pet shop. As I passed a cage of kittens, a tiny black claw reached out and grabbed me. And that was Leo. He chose me that day. And now the tiny cat that snagged me 14 years ago has to be force-fed warm baby food. He wobbles when he stands and barely struggles when we give him the warm bath soaks as instructed by his vet. About a week and a half ago he snuck out of the house and had a scuffle with a neighbor's cat, and as a result suffered an injury which quickly became a threatening infection. Blood tests revealed that underneath the infection are obvious signs of bad kidneys. It's a miracle he's still alive, I've been told. How much longer that will be, I don't know. All I do know for certain is that no other pet can or will ever replace him. Leo, short for Napoleon, earned his name and reputation diligently, and no matter what anyone thinks... particularly those who suffered his wrath... Leo has lived with a lion's heart. I'm grateful he has been a part of my life, and despite his illness I'm hoping he's still got a few years left in him. But I know that may not be the case. Valiant Leo, my sweetheart- I still call him my 'Baby Cat'. To say I'll miss him when he goes doesn't even come close to the truth.Until next time,Jezz
