Tuxedo

Tuxedo was a very special cat for being a homeless critter. He was named Tuxedo because he looked like he was wearing one. He had a little black spot on his nose, a fluffy tail and thought to be part Maine Coon.

In Auguust of 2002, I had friends Margie and Alex down from Manistee. My other half, Dennis and Alex decided to walk over to Dennis’ House, ten blocks away. On their way back, a little black and white kitten came out of no where, and started following them. They tried, without success to shoo him away, to no avail. When they walked up my driveway, Dennis said, “He followed us home. Can we keep him”, and laughed because I already had two cats. I took one look at him and knew I was in trouble. I protested loudly about I couldn’t have anyother cat, but knew I couldn’t let him go.

We tried unsuccessfully, to find his owner. We had to give him a flea bath, which he didn’t care for, because he had so many fleas they practically carried him. We took him to a vet for a checkout and surgery. He became a very important part of my life and I believe he was sent to us, as his story continues, it will be explained.

In December of 2002, my 36 year old son had an accident with closed head injuries. He was in a coma for 10 weeks. At one point he was given a 10% chance to live. Every time we came home from the hospital, the only thing that would lift our spirits, was Tuxedo.

We gave him the best years he could ever have. He didn’t know he was a cat. He fetched, came when he was called, was leash trained and would spend hours outside at our trailer on a rope. He loved any place he was. Everyone that met him couldn’t believe how much personality he had. He was spoiled but not a brat. He had to be where ever I was, no matter what I was doing, I would turn around and there he was on a comfortable spot waiting for me to finish.

He died unexpectedly. He was only ten years old, in perfect health and active and lively less than 24 hours earlier.

He took part of my heart with him. I will save another cat, but none will be able to replace Tuxedo. He kept me going.