Romeo |
My daughter's cat, Romeo, passed away today. Cancer took him after 13 years spent as a loyal pet. Genevieve showed him exceptional care and understanding in his final weeks and days, and Romeo very much accepted and enjoyed it all. Maybe even more than the love and care he experienced over the 13 years.
Romeo started out as a stray and took up residence in our garage. Young and thin, he was overjoyed to have a family and people that cared for him. Initially Romeo was pushed around by the many cats in the neighborhood but, as he grew and became healthy, he established himself as a cat not to be messed with. He had a favorite ninja move: Face the adversary, then jump forward, high in the air while performing a 180 degree spin, landing on the back of the adversary. Insert tearing claws. It always ended the fight with the other cat fleeing, pretty much never to invade Romeo's territory again.
Romeo and Swirly |
While he was pretty much a bad-ass cat, he was a good fella too. He loved his treats and tuna, playing with his bird toys, and to be petted. He meowed in a variety of ways to let you know he was hungry. The loudest purring cat I've ever heard when sitting next to Gen, or anybody. Like a happy, content motorboat. And his nemesis, Penny (one of our dogs), they eventually learned to tolerate each other...
Romeo, barely motivated...until the mower approaches. |
Romeo is now in Heaven, hanging out with his sidekick, Swirly, and his second side kick, Specter.
Gen with Romeo and Swirly (2010) |