Christmas with Joey

My cat Joey and I are sitting on the floor and watching the Christmas tree lights. The darkness of the night fills the living room. Joey loves a picture under the tree: it shows a nicely decorated festive room. A dog and a cat lay on the rug in front of a fireplace and enjoy the season. The picture has lights inside that change colors. 

Christmas is a magical time when people make wishes and believe in miracles. This Christmas is special for us. Our cat Joey has been diagnosed with a tumor this week. Joey came to our family in the early spring this year. We recently celebrated eight months of having him with us. 

How can our special boy have cancer? 

 A few months ago, we were so excited to start our journey and pictured years ahead together. We’re talking about how our cats will be playing and enjoying each other’s company. 

Joey loves attention and thrives on love. Every day he climbs on the office desk, walks to the window, and talks. Joey greets me in the morning when I check on him and clean the litter boxes. 

When I bring breakfast, my boy quickly runs, rubs against my legs, and asks me to stay home. When I look into Joey’s big olive eyes, I know he will miss me all day. 

Joey.

Joey is kind and humble. He lived most of his life on the streets and hadn’t seen much joy. After years of fighting for survival from sunrise to sunset, Joey appreciates the basics of life. He is a loyal friend, and he enjoys anything you give him. A simple toy or food, Joey is thankful and happy. 

One of Joey’s favorite things is to spend time with the family. He knows when we get home, and he waits for us by the door. This genuine, unconditional love makes me a better person. 

How can I reconcile the fact that my boy has weeks to live? Everything that bothered me earlier now seems small and insignificant. 

The journey ahead of us is overwhelming. Christmas is a busy time of the year. The doctors are booked with the appointments many weeks ahead. Fortunately, our veterinarian and friends from SNAP cats, a local rescue for cats with special needs, helped us find an oncologist and sign Joey for an appointment in a few days. 

Whatever challenges we have, we are in this together. In today’s article, we want to share our story and talk about how to spend quality time with your friend. 

Spend as much time together as possible.

It doesn’t matter what you are going to do, try to spend as much time with your friend as possible. They need our love and greatly appreciate our presence. You don’t have to play all the time or entertain your cat. Most importantly, be in the same room; allow him to crawl on your lap or sleep in your bed if your animal wishes. 

Let him watch you cooking dinner and check the ingredients. Your cat can gently sniff a carrot or a piece of potato that you prepare. Such companionship will help you to relate better and spend quality time together. 

Watch Christmas tree lights.

Joey loves the Christmas tree and the lights. He enjoys sitting underneath and looking around the room. Sometimes our boy likes to play with the ornaments. We have special ones that don’t break. Some of them are paper or fabric ornaments. And we light the tree for him as much as possible.  

Listen to music.

We play music for our cats on the television or the phones. Calm, soft harp, piano, or flute music works well. Joey enjoys listening to a cat purring or water sounds, like rain or a fountain. Monotone, soft music can help to reduce anxiety and make your cat more comfortable. Be with your cat when listening to music. 

Read to your cat. 

Reading is a great way to bond and enjoy time in each other’s company. Find your favorite book or any book you would like to read. It can be a children’s book, paper, or e-book. The books with positive and encouraging content would work best. Keep a calm, friendly tone when you read and check with your furry friend. Take time to pet him and encourage a dialogue. You may ask your cat questions or share his opinion about the story. We enjoy reading series of “Street Cat named Bob” by James Bowen. 

Eat together. 

The family meal is a time when everyone in a household comes together. You can feed your cat at the same time in the same room. You can sit on the floor and have a snack when your cat eats a meal. Eating together is a bonding and comforting activity. 

Watch the stars at night together. 

Joey enjoys looking through his favorite window and observing the outside life. When he lived at SNAP cats, he loved to stay on the secure outdoor catio. We don’t have a catio at our place, but the cats can enjoy a beautiful view of the field, hills, and bushes. Joey recently got a big, soft bed right by his window. At night, Joey’s room is not dark. The light comes from the stars, moon, and windows from the distant apartments.

Bring your cat for a walk in a stroller. 

If your cat enjoys being outdoors, you can use a stroller. Use your judgment and the stroller manufacturer safety devices. Make sure you equip the stroller for the weather conditions. Our stroller has a plastic cover against the wind and rain. We have an extra warm bed and blankets in the stroller. Place your cat in the stroller only if he allows. Avoid forcing your four-legged friend. 

Talk to your cat. 

Multiple studies have shown that our pets enjoy listening to a human voice. A calm, soft, and even sound can help an animal feel comfortable, reduce stress and anxiety. Acknowledge your cat when he talks. When Joey talks or meows, I stop doing my things, turn my face toward him, and respond. 

Talk to your cat and include him in a conversation. You may talk about your day, the things that went well, or concerns that you have. Ask your cat about his opinions. Your cat is your companion and the best audience. He loves you for who you are and will not judge you. 

A few words in conclusion. 

This Christmas is special. Our loving cat Joey has been recently diagnosed with cancer. While the doctors gave us very little hope, we are still waiting for a consultation with an oncologist. We are doing everything in our ability to comfort Joey and give him the best life possible.