She Didn't Come to Bed Last Night
I'm heading in. You coming?
Most nights, she’d already be waiting.
Warming the pillow. Saving my place.
Ready to curl her lithe body
to the small of my back.
Nuzzle my shoulder, my neck, my beard.
Content in our togetherness.
But not tonight.
She’s holding out, holding back.
Nineteen years together.
Faithful companion.
She’s never strayed. Nor have I.
She knows my moods as well as I know hers.
She tolerates my tirades, always forgiving.
Recently, though, more coolness, less cuddling.
Has she become more finicky?
She’s definitely more aloof.
Increasing her alone time.
Affection receding.
I seek her out.
Invading her solitude.
She shuns my touch.
Arches her back.
Turns her head to the wall.
She’s pulling away, pulling into herself.
I know the signs.
Her nature, always independent, becomes intolerant.
I offer. She ignores.
Tentative, I reach to caress.
She repels, retreats.
She’s making it clear.
Nineteen years is a long time.
Longer than most.
I wait. Try once more.
Okay, good night then.
No acknowledgment. Silence.
She's on her way out.
Not tonight. But inevitable.
About this time last year we lost her sister.
I love you, Pat.
Caring for Elderly Cats
- http://www.pet-tails.com/LPMArticle.asp?ID=240
- http://www.peteducation.com/category.cfm?c=1+1387
- Veterinary Q & A: Caring for Senior Cats
How old is "old" for a cat? What should cat owners be watching out for as their cat starts to slow down with age? Learn to distinguish what is "normal" as a cat ages, and what warrants a visit to your vet, in this Veterinary Q & A on senior cats.
- Pet Loss Grief Support, Rainbow Bridge, Monday Candle Ceremony,
Pet Loss Grief Support is the first place to visit when a beloved pet passes on. Here are personal support resources, Monday Candle Ceremony, Chat Room, SAFE Message Boards, Healing poetry including Rainbow Bridge and much more.
