Just like Oed

Two things about the one they called Bandito were obvious at first sight: one, he was the tiniest kitten in the litter, and two he needed a name change before coming home.

Number two was easily fixed, and the first issue resolved itself. Bandito, the short hair black kitty, son of two random stray cats who stumbled into a rental together one night in New Brunswick, became Oedipus Maximus. And thus began my relationship with a cat who eventually tipped the scales slightly south of twenty pounds. Maybe a bit more north during the Holiday season.

Oedipus saw me through college graduation, a divorce, a novel release, and a host of situations my mother shouldn’t learn about by reading this public entry. But there many good times to be sure. There were moments I will never forget. There were thousands of days and nights. And there were so many lessons.

For instance, Oedipus taught me how to live more fully. To love the people who matter most without conditions. He taught me that pats were good for everybody. And to take a nap each day. More than one nap when possible.

He also taught me about the kind of sorrow one can only experience when truly loving someone. Because without warning, Oedipus developed a serious kidney issue last week and the best option for treatment was no option at all.

So after nearly fifteen years together, this morning I placed Oedipus on the examination table at the vet’s office. I held both of his front paws as the vet shaved down his right rear inner leg. Before the syringe found its mark on a fresh patch of exposed skin I kissed Oedipus one last time, and told him I loved him with all my heart. Then the life in his eyes faded away like a lit flare tumbling down a black well.

Oedipus Maximus is gone now. His spirit will begin the journey his body could no longer manage.

And I am certain that the one they once called Bandito has again found his way to a new home.

10 thoughts on “Just like Oed

  • November 1, 2011 at 10:30 pm
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    I am so, so sorry about your loss. We had to do that 2x in 6 months and it was gut wrenching. You loved him with all your heart and he lived well. Hang in there.

  • November 2, 2011 at 5:44 am
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    Our thoughts are with you Sam.

  • November 2, 2011 at 11:02 am
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    Hey Sam,

    I’m sorry for your loss. I lost a beloved cat earlier this year so I know it’s heartbreaking. Thank you for sharing.

  • November 2, 2011 at 12:12 pm
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    So sad, Sam. Thinking of you.

  • November 2, 2011 at 10:50 pm
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    @Elizabeth – I can’t imagine doing this twice in six months. I loved Oed for sure. I hope many great things followed your loss.

    @MaryChris – thank you. Oedipus is probably napping with Colonel right now.

    @Cindy – it is the plight of pet owners. Pets give us so much and ask for very little in return. However unpleasant the ending might be, a rough few weeks on the tail end is eclipsed by the many hundreds of great ones which precede it. At least that’s what I’m trying to remember.

    @Mariam – thanks, buddy. Thanks for your kind thoughts earlier today, too.

  • November 8, 2011 at 8:48 am
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    I am so sorry for your loss. So Sorry.

  • December 1, 2011 at 6:06 pm
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    I’m so sorry Sam. All the good memories are the ones to focus on..smile about. Now I need a tissue.

  • December 2, 2011 at 9:37 am
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    I have two adorable dogs and I’m dreading the day…..
    It sounds like you gave Oedipus a wonderful life. What a lovely person you are.
    Big hugs.
    Ange x

  • December 8, 2011 at 9:16 pm
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    Jessica, thanks for the kind thoughts. Much appreciated.

    Angela, I like to think Oedipus had some good times. He always seemed pretty cheery. May your dogs life a long and wondrous life!

    Sorry about the delay in responding. This time of year is crazy!

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