While I have lived with and cared for a variety of companion animals since childhood, I currently live with a battalion of cats.

Eibhlin, a persnickety 16-year-old female, is the brains of the outfit. She spends most of her time holding court on the bed and keeping the other cats in line. She was diagnosed with chronic intestinal lymphoma last year, but seems to be holding her own.

Seamus, a sweet and loving 14-year-old male, likes to sit on my lap when I'm at the computer and to sleep under the covers at night. Seamus went missing in early 2006 but turned up on my doorstep almost 9 months later. I didn't know where he'd been, but both of us were thrilled that he'd finally found his way home.

Willoughby, a burly 10-year-old male, is an independent soul who taught me how to give him a drink of water out of the bathroom sink. He seems to think that his job is to guard the front yard from invaders.

Syro, an 11-year-old Siamese mix, is a chatty lovebug who gives great hugs. He used to belong to my neighbors, who left him behind when they moved a few years ago. Fortunately, he didn't seem to have a problem taking over my yard and adapting to the new food and water bowl location.

Along with a few jays, crows, squirrels, and raccoons who visit for the occasional meal, my animal companions serve to remind me that while I think I'm taking care of them, they're actually taking care of me. I'm just the one who does the shopping.

Prior to starting Black Cat Pet Care in 2004, I worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine editor, technical writer, technical editor, and writing team manager. After spending 20 years working in the corporate rat race, I find that I prefer racing around after cats instead.

Kimberly O'Neal
Owner, Black Cat Pet Care

Willoughby

Seamus

Eibhlin

Syro

Kimberly

Copyright ©2004-2008 Kimberly O'Neal