Smudge: My Old Cat and My Lifelong Love for Felines

There’s a universal truth among cat owners, you don’t own a cat, your cat owns you. And Smudge, my black and white fur overlord, took that dynamic to a whole new level. He wasn’t just a pet, he was a diva, a therapist, and a part time agent of chaos wrapped in a fluffy, judgmental package. Smudge didn’t purr so much as she commanded the air to vibrate in his honor. He had a way of looking at you like she knew all your secrets and would only keep them if you gave him tuna.

Smudge has been gone for a while now, but not a day goes by that I don’t think about him He also the reason I’ll forever be a cat person, despite their tendency to knock over cups of water at 2 a.m. and stare at walls like they see ghosts. This is his story, or, more accurately, our story.


The Arrival of a Legend

Smudge came into my life in the most chaotic, Smudge-like way possible. I got him from a mate who, in true last-minute fashion, hadn’t discussed it with his wife. I brought him home and sat on the kitchen floor with this black-and-white ball of sass, who immediately gave me a look that said, “Yeah, yeahhh… you’re mine now.” I was smitten. But, of course, life had other plans, and Smudge had to go back when my mate’s wife got wind of the whole thing. I thought that was the end of it.

But Smudge wasn’t the type to be kept away. Eventually, he came back to me for good, as if the universe knew we were meant to be a package deal. From that point on, he was my constant companion, through the ups and downs of life.


Life with Smudge: A Comedy of Fur and Claws

Living with Smudge was like having a tiny chaos machine that also doubled as a therapist. Over the years, he traveled with me to different homes, visited more houses than most humans ever will, and somehow made himself the star of every place he went. Smudge had this way of winning people over with his mix of diva charm and outright mischief.

There was the time I had to pick him up from a pub after he somehow managed to charm his way in there. Or the random texts I’d get from people I barely knew—“Hey, is this your cat? He’s at my place again.” Smudge just had a way of making connections wherever he went, and it was impossible not to love him for it.


The Community’s Cat

One of my favorite chapters of Smudge’s life was when we lived in an old community space. Smudge was everyone’s cat there, loved by all. He’d roam freely, making the rounds like he owned the place (which, let’s be real, he probably thought he did). People would leave little treats for him or let him nap on their laps. It was his kingdom, and he ruled it with equal parts aloofness and affection.

But, as with all good things, that chapter came to an end. When I had to move, it broke my heart to realize I couldn’t take Smudge with me. I had to give him away, and saying goodbye to him was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. He wasn’t just a pet—he was my partner in crime, my companion through life’s chaos.


Lessons from a Feline King

Smudge taught me so much in the time we had together. His antics, his affection, and even his stubbornness left an impression that I’ll carry forever. Here are a few of the lessons I learned from him:

  • Boundaries Are Important: Smudge never let anyone cross a line, and he wasn’t afraid to enforce it (usually with a swat). It’s a reminder that protecting your space is necessary.
  • Live in the Moment: Smudge didn’t dwell on the past or stress about the future. Whether he was perched on a windowsill or knocking over a glass, he was fully present.
  • Love Is Special: Smudge didn’t give his affection freely, and that made it all the more meaningful. When he chose to curl up on your lap, you knew you’d earned it.

Saying Goodbye

Smudge may no longer be with me, but his spirit is still very much alive in my heart. I think about him often—the chaos, the love, and the countless memories we made together. Saying goodbye was painful, but I find comfort in knowing that he brought joy to so many people, not just me.


Why Cats Will Always Be My People

Smudge wasn’t just a cat—he was family. He reminded me that life is better with a little chaos, a lot of love, and the occasional paw resting on your hand. He’s the reason I’ll always be a cat person, even if it means dealing with scratched furniture and the occasional mystery disappearance to a pub.

Because at the end of the day, cats like Smudge don’t just share your life—they take over your heart. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top