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There are people who reshape the world by force or argument,
but the cat just lies there, dozing,
and the world quietly reshapes itself to suite his comfort and convenience.

~ALLEN and IVY DODD
American writers

Annie


Annie

Annie was the sister of Ralph and Merlin (see other post, below). At first I admit I was a little nervous about giving her the medication she needed... she was not too pleased with getting meds! Over time, though, she let me pet her and the last couple of times I took care of her and her brothers, she met me right at the door and led me right to her food dish! She was pretty small and frail when I got to know her, but I have a special place in my heart for these kitties. I felt honored that she warmed up to me. I will always see you greeting me at the door in my mind's eye, Annie.

Lori (20Toes) - January 10, 2013

Ralph and Merlin


Ralph and Merlin

I first met Ralph (red) & Merlin (silver)(and Annie, see another post) when their sitter couldn't make it because of a snow storm ... I filled in for her. They were interested to see me! They were all litter mates, and even though this photo is of them as kittens, they did grow up and keep each other company. Each one was a character! Ralph would jump on the counter to wait impatiently for me to get his food ready, and he would eat in one special spot there. Merlin was kind of conflicted -- he wanted to get attention, but he was a little worried and would run away. I was supposed to give him some pills ... but he found the one hiding place I could not get him out of. He would dive in between the basement steps into a crawlspace behind the stair case. There were no other entrances to this space, so I was sunk! Smart guy. Ralph used to get insulin, and he was always very good about his shots. The three of them all left us in a short span of time in under one year. I can't imagine their home without them.

Lori (20Toes) - January 10, 2013

Rowdy and Noire


Rowdy and Noire

Rowdy and Noire left us in the same year -- very sad. Their mom said this is kind of an old photo of them, as Rowdy was only a kitten when it was taken. He did grow up to be a big boy! At first glance, when they were both adults, they looked like twins. But, when I met Rowdy, as his cat sitter, he had a medical problem ... possibly an inner ear issue or maybe even a brain tumor. It caused him to walk with his head tilted ... he kept right on trying to do all the things he used to do, like run and jump. Noire was smaller than him, and she had some health issues later in life and needed to gain some weight. Of course, she ate very very slowly and Rowdy wanted to eat everything in sight, right away! They kept me or my employees busy at meal time! Their food was in a large jar with a screw-on lid that had to be kept in a high cabinet in the kitchen, as their mom said they figured out how to open the jar! We miss you two!

Lori (20Toes) - January 10, 2013

Diego


Diego

I came to take care of Diego in his older years, after he had been diagnosed with heart problems. He needed pills every day, and I have to say, he was a master at pretending he had swallowed those pills ... At first, Diego used to hide on me. I even had to call him mom up one time because I absolutely could not find him anywhere in the house. She said "Oh, I bet he's behind the office desk ... squeezed in between the back of the file drawers and the wall," and indeed, that's where he was. This year, he decided he would be friends with me after all. I'd come in the house and he would come into the kitchen to eat, he would meow at me, and purr and purr. I really felt honored when he decided I was "OK" after all. Diego, I will always see you in your spot on the sofa and I will probably find myself putting a dish of food up on your special table for your breakfast. I will miss you, big guy!

Happy we were friends, Lori (20Toes) - December 14, 2012

Zoe


Zoe

Zoe lived with 8 other cats in her home. I have notes in my cat sitting files that Zoe loves people, but does not love cats. When I would go cat sit at Zoe's house I thought I saw everyone, and I did eventually learn who was who. Then, Zoe needed a pill. I went over and consulted my notes -- Zoe was a gray striped cat with white feet. There were two other gray cats with white feet -- but I didn't think either one of them was named Zoe. I had to text Zoe's dad to make sure I was finding the right cat. He told me where she might be hiding -- and once I found her I said "I don't think I've ever seen this cat!" Zoe was a good girl and she was glad I finally found her for some attention. :) Her downturn was sudden, and I know I didn't expect her family to lose her that quickly. Zoe, I am glad we met and I think of you.

I will always remember you, Lori (20Toes) - December 14, 2012

Pepper


Pepper

Pepper was the Queen of her home when I first met her a couple of years ago, as her new cat sitter. She was always in her spot on the bed, with five or so of her housemates around her. Being old, she had some health issues, and part of my job was to give her a pill. She was always great about it. In her final weeks she went blind and I'd find her curled up under the hollow of her cat steps to the bed. Once she realized I was there, she'd come out and somehow navigate her way to the kitchen to eat. Her favorite treat was a little dish of milk. Pepper, your home is not the same without you and I will always "see" you in your spot on the bed.

You are missed, Lori (20Toes) - December 14, 2012

Copper


In October of 1997 my husband and I adopted two brothers, Copper and Brass, from a Whiskers foster "mom". They quickly made our new house a real home, and convinced my husband cats were just as great pets as dogs. Over the past 15 years, Copper established himself as the alpha male of our eventual 4 cat and one child household. He was my husband and daughter's very favorite of all, and we were devastated when he died from heart failure on March 3, 2012. For the past 4 years, I donate monthly to Whiskers through SEFA at work, and we are now also helping another cat rescue group as fosters. We hope to share the joy of well adjusted kittens with others. Thank you, Whiskers. PS: Brass is still with us, and adjusting to his new role as King of the House.

Love, Wendy, Dan and Nora Samson - June 6, 2012

Goldie


Goldie

We love you and miss you so much. You were truly a special kitty who will live on forever in our hearts.

Brooke and Daniel Todd  - October 25, 2011

   Miss you and love you very much Goldie - Jan 10, 2012

Rufus


Rufus

Rufus was a sweet kitten who had only a short time with us.

With love from your foster mom and dad - October 6, 2011

Zekie-Joe


Zekie-Joe at the Bridge

My Zekie-Joe, adopted as an adult feral from Whiskers in 1995, turned into the most outgoing, people loving cat ever. He helped rehab a little feral girl cat and they ended up best buddies for the rest of his life. I lost my beautiful boy to cancer on 1/5/11 at 16+ years....he was my baby and I miss him so much. RIP my little "Gunslinger".

Love, Mama - February 21, 2011

Wolfie


Wolfie

A constant companion of 17 years. Her lustrous Russian blue-gray fur conjured her name, Wolfie. That and her strong, independent nature. Wolfie was truly alpha-leader of the pack. She reached her paw out of the cage at the pound bringing Donna into her life.

Donna and John  - February 21, 2011

   RIP Wolfie from Donna - Feb 21, 2011
   Miss you Wolfie - John - Feb 23, 2011
   You were one-of-a-kind Su - Mar 03, 2011
   Lacey, Mitt-Z and I all miss you--Bernice - Mar 06, 2011
   You will always be in the hearts of your loving family- Sally - Mar 18, 2011

Wilson


Wilson aka Nel

Wilson was his given name but he was known to everyone as Nel. He was a super cat and great companion for my daughter who was Nel's foster mom for almost 3 years. Nel was born with a heart condition and suffered from severe allergies. He was on meds for both most of his 4 short years with us. We lost him recently due to a blood clot that stopped his circulation. We will miss you Nel. You were a great kitty.

Love, Grandma - December 13, 2010

   I took care of Nel for a while and he was a real joy. I will miss him. - Dec 14, 2010

Dutch


Dutch and one of his many friends

Dutch was a scruffy stray we picked up one summer night in Schenectady. When offered a ride, he jumped right in the car without hesitation. Always an eager and adventurous fellow, he especially loved to take long rides in cars and meet new people. Eventually, Dutch stopped his wandering ways and settled down to be a wonderful companion. By the time he reached 60 in people years, he was beloved by all whose paths he crossed for his unfailing loyalty and devotion. Here’s to you Dutch!

Love, Laurie & Rich - December 11, 2010

Radar


To my Dear Neighbors, In Memory of Radar who passed on Jan 8th at the Golden Age of 20. Brenadette & Jay I just want you to know how sorry I am for your loss. I appreciated the comfort that you shared with me during my sorrow. You both gave Radar the best years left in his life. He will always have a special place in your hearts.

Your friend, Theresa - January 19, 2010

Myrtle


Dear Myrtle, I was able to spend 19 1/2 years with you. I am so lucky. Thank you to Dr. Barbara Bucki at New Baltimore Animal Hospital for taking such great care of you. You are in my heart forever!

Raelene - December 29, 2009

Sweet Pea Masterson


Sweet Pea, Halloween 2008

In loving memory...October 15, 1997 - October 7, 2009.

The Matthew V. Masterson family - November 28, 2009

Kitty


Kitty

Kitty was the best friend anyone could ask for. She was my first cat friend, a stray that someone dropped off near our house. When I was sick, she would bring me her toys and when I was away she would drag my socks and sweaters around the house, crying. She fought a long battle with cancer, passing away on November 5, 2007. Her sweetness and devotion made my family and I unconditional cat lovers and have since rescued and adopted many cat friends. Kitty is truly an exceptional being who will always be missed.

Love always, Jessie - September 1, 2009

China


My husband and I made a donation to Whiskers in memory of "China," who was the beloved pet and housemate of our neighbor and fellow cat-lover, Terri Couser.

Bernadette LaManna - August 18, 2009

China Blue


China Blue at 10 days old

China Blue was a beautiful, tiny boy who was adored by his mom, Cashmere. He warmed the hearts of the few people who had the good fortune to know him during his brief time on the planet.

 

We all miss him very much and mourn the loss of the special cat we know he would have grown up to be.

 

Love, Cashmere, Laurie and Rich - June 19, 2009

   We miss you China Blue. - Aug 20, 2009
   China Blue you were a little fighter. You touched my heart. - Aug 21, 2009
   It's been 10 years! Love, Mom (Cashmere) - Dec 08, 2019

Annabelle Lee


Forever loved...June 96 - March 09

Annabelle Lee belonged to a dear friend. She showed up on her doorstep as a young kitten and walked right into the house as if she belonged there. My friend had never had cats before but it wasn't long before Annabelle Lee had totally claimed her heart. This little cat would end up changing the course of my friend's life. She ended up becoming involved in cat rescue and also managing a feral colony for years. All because of Annabelle.

 

Sadly Annabelle came down with cancer and after fighting a valiant battle (she had such an indomitable spirit), she finally did succumb. Oh what a legacy she left behind though! So many cats have been saved because Annabelle chose just the right place to call home.

 

You are very missed Annabelle.

 

Love Sandy  - April 4, 2009

Callisto


Callisto

Callisto came to us from a friend, at a sad time in our lives ... she really helped us feel better. Callisto was mischievous and had a real attitude, but that just made us love her more. This cat slept on our shoulders and pillows, washed my hair every night, would growl if she was sitting on a lap at the computer and the lap-owner pushed in the keyboard drawer ... she knew that meant the lap was going to disappear! She'd run off in a huff, but be back a minute later, stealing a pen or sitting on a newspaper one of us might be trying to read.

 

Callisto died very suddenly. Alan saw her being her fluffly self one second, passed by Lori on his way upstairs from the basement, and when Lori got down the stairs Callisto was lying on the floor, dead. We were glad to have learned CPR for cats from the Red Cross, but no amount of CPR would bring her back.

 

So, here's to you, Fancy Pants. We really miss you and will remember you always. You were definitely one of a kind! Seven years was not as much time as we wanted to have with you, but we were glad for all we had.

 

Love, Lori and Alan - March 24, 2009

   Callisto's was the only birthday party I ever attended for a kitty!  - Mar 10, 2009
   Bryan Clyne - Oct 01, 2010

Carly


Carly

Carly was a big, beautiful girl. She was a loyal friend to Kathy and Larry, the people who rescued her. The strength of her spirit will live on in their hearts.

 - March 9, 2009

Boston and Salem


Boston & Salem

In September 2008, my family adopted two 8-month old brothers named Boston and Salem. Despite the fact they were FeLV+ they made the most of each day, playing and being naughty. Salem passed quietly over Christmas 2008, and Boston passed on March 8th 2009. Their all-too-short lives were filled with happiness and contentment - we'll miss our naughty boys, but know they're probably causing mischief somewhere...

 - March 9, 2009

Zoe Bear and Oso Jax


Zoe and Oso loved the snow

Zoe and Oso were two magnificent Alaskan Malamutes full of energy and playful mischief.

 

Zoe was one of 11 puppies born in Brooklyn in the spring of 1994. My husband and I were moving back to our country home after a year in the city and we saw an ad for the puppies. We went to see them and for some reason we picked the puppy whose legs couldn't hold her up. The breeder assured us she was just a going to be a big dog and that she'd eventually learn to walk. We brought her back to our apartment where she could only crawl on the hardwood floors. The next day, we packed her in the front seat of the U-haul where she happily rode rode home like a perfect angel. Of course that didn't last long. True to her breed, she was willful and adventurous - but she smiled the whole time. (maybe she was laughing at us)

 

A couple of years later while on vacation in the state of Washington, we visited the breeder where Zoe's parents were born. We weren't really looking for another dog, but that's where we met Oso. He was returned at 1 1/2 years old due to a divorce in his family. There were 47 other dogs there, but our hearts were captured by Oso because he had that same silly grin on his face that Zoe had. Three weeks later, Oso arrived at the airport squeezed into a too-small dog crate. We barely knew him, but he was instantly part of the family (that included 7 cats). Zoe was only 135 lbs compared to Oso's 150, but she was ours first and he allowed her to be the boss - most of the time. But, even as adults, they always maintained their inner puppy.

 

Malamutes may be the perfect dog for cat lovers because they do what they want when they want to. Cat lovers can deal with that.

Love, Rich, Laurie and the kitties - March 8, 2009

   Zoe and Oso were great dogs. They are missed. - May 19, 2020

Sylvester


We love you Syl!

Sylvester was my first cat. I got him from a farmer when he was only 6 weeks old and he lived to be a ripe old 19 years! He was a real character... one of his favorite habits was collecting twist ties and adding them to his food bowl. We rarely removed his collection and he just ate around them. I still remember the time we had liver and onions for dinner... when we weren't looking he swiped a big hunk of the liver and put it in his food bowl. I guess he was going to feast on it later. We miss you and love you Syl. 4/20/1981 - 5/1/2000.

 - March 7, 2009

Fluffy


Fluffy and Me

Fluffy was my grandmother's cat when I was a child. She was the first cat I can remember. When I was 7 I asked my mom for a cat and I wanted to get one just like Fluffy.

 - January 25, 2009

Brennan


Brennan, precious boy

Brennan was a foster kitten who got dealt a bad deck in life. He seemed to be doing fine and growing up into a loving boy until he got to be about 6 months old. He started having problems and we couldn't figure out what was wrong for a long time. He stopped growing and lost weight. All this time he remained sweet and craved attention. Finally it was determined that he had FIP, a 100% fatal illness. We had to let him go in Jan 2008.

 - January 25, 2009