Grey Kitty (Max) Sheaffer by Amy Sheaffer / Amy

Mr. Grey Kitty (Max):

Grey Kitty found me when I didn’t know I needed or wanted a cat. He was a stray who slowly wormed his way into my heart by meeting me at my car every day one summer and walking me to the door of my condo. When the weather became cold, I opened the door one night. He ran in, jumped up onto the bed, curled up and fell asleep. It was like he had always belonged with me, and so he stayed.

Over the course of his life, he had repeated illnesses, first feline urinary syndrome and later irritable bowel syndrome and hyperthyroidism. Along the way, his vets were always able to find something that would help him return to a normal, happy life. Over the last year, he developed diabetes and then liver disease. I thought it would be impossible, but we worked through it together and he conquered both. The last few months as the diabetes waned Grey Kitty regained alot of his strength and joy for life. His hind legs grew stronger, and he could once again jump up on the back of the sofa, look out the window, and watch the world go by. He explored the once-forbidden basement and garage with curiosity and bravado.

He went for long, early morning walks alongside me (on his leash) up the street. After the walks, he was revitalized and happy, often eating a hearty meal and falling asleep in the sun on his favorite blanket on the porch. He was much more like himself over the last month,
bright-eyed, attentive, and purring.

Unfortunately, he caught a respiratory infection and just couldn’t fight it off. I am so grateful to his vets and caregivers. Even though Grey Kitty didn’t think much of his vets, and was described as a ‘firecracker’ by the staff for his feisty nature, they treated him with the care and respect that such an old man deserves.

I’m so glad that they encouraged me to have 3 long visits with him during his last hospital stay. I think those visits comforted us both. He was a brave and devoted little cat, and a wonderful companion.

 

I'll miss him always,