I adopted Spike from Purrfect Pals in August 2001 and we definitely had some initial issues. Spike was a big, ferocious, one-eyed, deaf cat. He bit and scratched. He tormented my other cat. He was loud and demanding and destructive. But, over the years, Spike settled down into a wonderful and memorable companion. When I lived in an apartment building, Spike would hang out by the elevator and greet people. He visited story time at the library and let little kids pet him. He tolerated numerous foster critters (hamsters and gerbils and rats) without attempting to eat any of them. He walked on a leash, stood up to big dogs, and was the only cat I have ever had who actually enjoyed being picked up and held. He had the world’s loudest purr.

There are many, many Spike stories and he will be missed by many people.

Spike became ill on January 4th, and despite excellent veterinary care, it became apparent he was not going to recover. Spike died on January 8th, 2014. Spike brought joy to all of us and has left a big, empty hole in my house.

“I love cats because I love my home and after a while they become its visible soul.” - Jean Cocteau

Christiane W