Somebody Slap Me

It's probably time for me to man up, but I'm just forlorn over having to get rid of my last cat. Is she the most loving cat in the world? Probably not. Is it normal for a grown man to be sad, perhaps even a little teary (actually, I just got something in my eye), over having to say goodbye to what will likely be his last cat in a long line of kitties extending from early childhood? Yes, that is totally normal. Allergies are definitely part of the Curse. Allergies, aquired late in life, are just plain excessively cruel.

It's not like we're sending her to a gas chamber, in fact, we're sending her to Greg, who is an answer to prayer - a guy with two big fat cats already, and who obviously loves them. Next to being able to keep her, this is the best thing.

So, so long Claire. I will miss you. Below is an email I wrote to her new owner.

Dear G,

Here are some things Claire likes and suggestions for a smooth transition. When we moved out of one house into another, I put her and Yummy’s cat carrier in the closet in our new room, in our new home.  It took her quite a while to emerge from the carrier, let alone the closet, but of course she eventually did. You may wish to employ the same technique, modified in such a way to accommodate her new four legged housemates.

As far as bathroom arrangements go, I can provide you with our giant litter pan if you think that is a good idea. I’m sure you know the drill of how to introduce a cat to her litter pan so I won’t go there 

Claire’s favorite toy is the ring around a gallon milk jug. Toss one her way and she’ll scoot it down the tile or other smooth flooring surface until it ends up underneath the stove or fridge. I  have plenty if you need some. I also may have a Christmas stocking too .

Her favorite nighttime routine is to crawl under my blanket as I read on the couch and of course get petted. Regardless of where I go, there she is.

Hopefully she’ll feel right at home with you. Surely at some point she’ll run to the door upon your arrival home as she does to me. Maybe she’ll even let you scoop her up and rub her belly. I hope you all get everything worked out.