Home is where my cat is.
- A story of a cat lover seeking comfort and joy in feline companionship where she calls it her home.
For most people, home is defined as a physical space, a place where they can find comfort and familiarity. But for me, my home is my cat. It may sound strange, but hear me out.
As a lifelong cat lover, I’ve always found peace in the company of felines. While cats can’t talk or react to our words, their presence alone can provide comfort and solace. There’s something about the way they listen and look at us that makes us feel understood. They are silent companions, providing a warm and fuzzy presence in our lives.
Over the years, I’ve shared my home with countless feline companions. Each cat had its own unique personality, but all of them were special in their own way. They brought joy, laughter, and a sense of calm to my life.
A Heartbreaking Loss
But with that love comes a great deal of heartache. The pain of losing a beloved pet is a unique kind of grief. It feels like losing a family member or a close friend. The memories of their purring, snuggles, and playfulness become bittersweet reminders of their absence.
In 2019, while I was away at university, my previous cat, Mokyen, passed away. I had been too busy to come home, and the guilt of not being there for him still weighs heavy on me. Losing Mokyen was like losing a part of myself. He had been my constant companion, my confidant, and my comfort. But even in the midst of my grief, I knew I couldn’t give up on loving and caring for cats.
My New Home: Tomi
That’s how I came to adopt my current cat, Tomi. From the moment I saw him, I knew he was meant to be mine. He was a tiny ball of fur, with big green eyes and a playful spirit. But convincing my dad to let me bring him home wasn’t easy. I had to give countless reasons why Tomi was the perfect fit for our family. Eventually, my dad relented, and Tomi became a part of our household.
Tomi is unlike any other cat I’ve ever had. He’s big, healthy, and very pampered. But he’s also incredibly picky and has a passive-aggressive personality that makes him both frustrating and endearing. Despite our ups and downs, Tomi has become my new home. His presence has filled the void left by Mokyen’s passing.
Took a lot of effort to take this, but isn’t he handsome?
The Joy of Feline Companionship
Tomi has also brought joy and laughter to my family. Even my dad, who was initially reluctant to adopt him, has become one of Tomi’s biggest fans. Tomi has a way of winning people over with his charm, even though he can be aloof and judgmental at times.
A proof of Tomi giving me that judgemental look.
Our love-hate relationship is typical of cat owners everywhere. We spend hours playing together, cuddling, and sharing our lives. But there are also moments when Tomi drives me crazy, like when he demands more food by knocking his bowl onto the floor. It’s all part of his unique personality, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Us on the first day of Eid ‘21. It was Tomi’s first Eid!
The Healing Power of Cats
Cats may not be able to fill a physical space like a house, but they have a way of making themselves at home in our hearts. For me, my cat is my home, my comfort, and my joy. I know that one day, I’ll have to say goodbye to Tomi too, but for now, I’m grateful for every moment we share together.
