Sweet Buddy Blue Eyes, the best cat ever, forever in our hearts.
Sadly, our little guy didn't have a great start in life. He was rescued in the nick of time in May 2007 (by our Aunt Marjorie who eventually asked us to care for him in March 2008). He was starving, so dirty it was impossible to know what colour he was, and in need of a great deal of veterinary care. But his gorgeous big blue eyes shone through... despite all of his misery. Since that tragic beginning, Buddy had health problems that escaped diagnosis, despite consultations with many different vets, and lots of tests. Buddy vomited frequently, but always recovered within 10 minutes or so, eating and drinking normally soon afterwards, and playing or cuddling like nothing was wrong at all. It was ultimately decided that he was basically healthy - probably just a cat with hairballs. Fortunately, he was the BEST cat in the world when it came to taking his medicines. And he LOVED to be groomed - twice daily if you please!
It is Saturday, October 3rd, 2009: Buddy had an extra-fun morning. He played all over the house, chased his rubber balls and his catnip toy, admired his handsome self in the mirrors, and "helped" us with the laundry. He settled into a lovely long catnap this afternoon on the sofa next to his "mommy". When he woke up in the evening, he visited his litter box, played some more, and enjoyed his second grooming of the day, courtesy of his "daddy". Then he decided it was time for supper, so he tippy-toed off to the kitchen. We both heard a strange noise and rushed to his side. Our beautiful little guy was flat on the floor, taking his final breath as we watched in total disbelief.
Dear Buddy: it was a great privilege to have cared for you, cuddled you, groomed you, and played with you over the past year and a half. We loved you very, very much. And we know you loved us too. Maybe you suffered more than you wanted to let us know. Maybe you just couldn't find a way to say goodbye.... We know you're okay now.
With aching hearts and wonderful memories of an unforgettable, determined, super-cuddly little fellow with soulful big blue eyes, we have to say "bye for now...."
Lynne and Sam