Swooner hanging out indoors. Ellen Whyte
Three weeks ago, Swooner went out at dawn for his customary walk. Five minutes later, he was ambushed by a giant snake. Our poor boy was killed.
The incident happened right in front of our neighbour who was up early to cater a breakfast party. She saw Swoon walk by, then Target growled, and when she looked to see what Target was angry about, it was already too late.
Even so, our neighbour and a passing security guard tried to help. With all the action, the snake dropped Swooner’s body and escaped. There’s a large wild area near us, and it is likely where it lives.
Cats don t just love their comfort; they insist on it. Because of it, our home is stuffed with comfy cushions.
Target s favourite is a giant, soft red-and-blue medallion print that sits on the red chair. The Sarawak batik that we share at night comes a close second.
Swooner s is delft blue-and-white pad that lies on the garden bench outside. We ve had to repair two little rips in it because it s worn from the hot sun and quiet, happy clawing. We don t dare replace it, though, because it s been his since he was a kitten.
Tic Tac sleeps on her high shelf, queen of all she surveys. Also, like Goldilocks, she tries out all the different spots.
Photo: 123rf.com
One of the things about living in the suburbs is that we have lots of green space. It also means we have birds, rodents, bugs of all kinds, lizards and more. I love it, I think it s important to be connected with nature, but some visitors can be difficult.
Recently, one of the more difficult visitors paid a visit. It was the first day of Chinese New Year. As holidays and weekends are busy times for me, I finished my therapy sessions at lunchtime and trotted down the stairs.
Tic Tac saw me coming and meowed in welcome. But when she jumped off the big red chair by the front window, she hissed and put her back up. To my horror, I saw a snake rear up.