...And Then There Were 3

[mr squeaks]

A little over 17 years ago, I went to a cat show. My life changed forever when I brought home a young cat with tiny ears, known as a Scottish Fold. The previous owners told me that he liked to sit on the couch and watch football with them, so they named him Bubba. I added “Louie” and affectionately called him “Bubba Lou.” Scottish Folds are known for their easy going dispositions. Bubba would sit on his haunches like a gopher when something caught his attention. He would also lie on his back like an otter – the epitome of relaxation. Over the years, he captured the hearts of all who met him. With his distinctive laid back personality, he earned the nickname, “Quaalude Kitty.”

The addition of other cats never fazed Bubba and he took the changes in stride. When Mr. Squeaks joined us, Bubba did his best to make friends. Bubba’s first whisker to beak effort was not successful, nor the next. Squeaks thought all cats were created equal: to be chased – period. Bubba decided that discretion was the better part of valor, so observing this strange feathered being from a distance would be best!

Bubba was also my alarm clock. Every morning, he would wake me by yanking my hair or pawing my face. Not too long ago, Squeaks got into the act by finally learning how to ring his bell, which had only been hanging in his home for 2 years!

When Bubba began showing his age, Squeaks occasionally took advantage of Bubba’s slower pace by running a sneak beak flank attack! Fortunately, for Bubba, those sneak attacks were rare!

Today, due to failing health, Bubba and I decided that the time had come for him to enjoy a much kinder existence. We were very fortunate to meet Dr. Baker, who is a true “cat whisperer.” I was so impressed with Dr. Baker, that I wrote a note to the Clinic expressing my grateful thanks.

Although his body is gone, his spirit/soul will live on in my heart, mind and memory. AND, whenever Squeaks “tinkles” his bell in the morning, I will know that his cat collaborator, Bubba, is there too, saying “GET UP AND FEED US!”

In loving memory from Shi, Mr. Squeaks, Twiggy, Gypsy and Timmy…

[Pete Jasinski]

I'm so sorry you lost you beloved Bubba. As you said he's living a kinder existence now. Bubba will be Mr. Squeak's spirit guide/guardian making sure he stays safe. I wish I could say more but nothing I say could mend the pain in your heart.

[Feather]

Shi,

That is a beautiful legacy! When Mr. Squeaks rings his bell that Bubba will be right up there with you. 17 years is along time to have an animal, so I know that the life that Bubba lived in this realm was a good one.

Love,
Feather

[maryjane]

Dear Shi, what a beautiful story about Bubba Lou. My heart goes out to you and I'm glad you were able to make the decision to help him pass in peace, it's such a hard decision to make sometimes. I'm sending you a big hug from me and my critters. <3

[TerriB]

Originally Posted by mr squeaks

...the time had come for him to enjoy a much kinder existence.…

What a wonderful way to describe one of the most difficult acts for a caring owner. It isn't easy, but it's the best you can do for them. You and Bubba were very lucky to have had such a long and full relationship. I am sorry for your loss, since transitions can be painful. You seem to recognize that you never really lose them, because they are still gently nestled in your heart.

[Lin Hansen]

Shi,

I'm so so sorry to hear about Bubba....I don't care how long your pets are with you, it still breaks your heart when it's time for them to leave....

Linda

[Pigeonpal2002]

Dear Shi,

I'm so sorry to hear about Bubba You've mentioned his antics and wrote a lot about his personality in our forum for the year and a bit that you've been here. I'm not really a "cat" person, but I can definitely relate to your pain and sorrow over the loss of your dear cat. A pet is a pet is a pet and we all love them equally.

I hope you don't mind, but I'm going to put your post in the "Hall of Love", where it belongs and in dedication to a wonderful animal.

[TAWhatley]

Shi,

I am so sorry for your loss of Bubba. I have many elder cats and know from whence you are coming. I'm sending you the biggest of hugs .. I know you are devastated.

Terry

[kittypaws]

Shi,

I am so sorry to hear about Bubba - as you can tell I am a cat person too - Avator and Name!

It is devastating to lose a pet, but your vet must have been like mine - very good at the end.

Take care

Tania xx

[Trees Gray]

Shi, Mr. Squeaks, Twiggy, Gypsy and Timmy,

I also want to express my sorrow at this very sad news. I know you are all absolutely devistated.

I'm sending you some special prayers for comfort and also one BIG hug for all.

[sidlawpigeon]

Sorry to hear about Bubba. To lose a pet - actually a family member, one could say - after such a long time is always sad and leaves an empty space.

[pigeonmama]

Shi,
Just look at the rainbows, and know where your wonderful Bubba lou is waiting for you.
Daryl

[SueC]

Take care, Shi.

Beanie n Suzanna (who lost her best 14 year old kitty friend 1 & half year ago)

[mr squeaks]

Thank you all so very much for your wonderful sentiments! Bubba (now in spirit form) and I are so touched! And, THANK YOU, Brad!

I debated posting his loss here because Bubba was a cat and, after all, this IS a pigeon site.

I changed my mind because Mr. Squeaks and my cats are so interwoven, that Squeaks is usually mentioned along with one of the cats. Squeaks would find life quite boring without being able to think of new ways to bedevil his feline nemeses! Most birds would be delighted to be able to play "pay back" with a cat and Squeaks still has THREE!

Actually, Squeaks relishes his role and, when not in Super Power Pijie mode, will instruct any pigeon interested in learning "How To Chase A Cat 101!"

[Lady Tarheel]

My dear Shi, I just picked up on this and you know, kindred spirits that we are, how very sad I am over Bubba. I know the decision was hard because we went through the same thing with our min-pin, Missy. But, when the vet told us that we could let her go with dignity, that decided us. But, it still hurts like hell.

That sweet Bubba will always be with you and you with him. I'll bet when you reach the pearly gates years and years from now, he'll be sitting there asking why you took so long.

I'm glad Brad is putting this in the Hall of Love because that's where it should be. Bubba was part of your life for many years and you're part of our forum family as was Bubba.

I love you and know that I'm thinking of you mighty hard here in North Carolina.