Billy Cat is my feline buddy during this time of social distancing, and has been a dear presence in my life for quite a while. Billy Cat was rescued by my brother-in-law and named for a beloved uncle of his, a Vietnam veteran, who had passed away. For several years I lived with my sister and brother-in-law, and then they moved into a new place. I offered to care for the cat. They have a French bulldog (Bella) that is a little too rambunctious around cats.
It was comical to see Billy and Bella interact. Bella would hop around Billy, yapping and barking, trying to get Billy to run so Bella could chase him. Billy would just sit back and watch Bella’s antics, rarely reacting unless Bella got too close; then Billy Cat would take a swipe at Bella, baring those sharp claws. Bella would jump back. Billy would just continue to sit there. Then, out of nowhere, Billy would walk over to Bella and head-butt her, Billy’s way of being friendly. I think Billy Cat actually liked Bella. But Bella did not know how to deal with that.
I don't know exactly how old Billy Cat is. We've had him for eight or ten years and he was mature when my brother-in-law found him. He has a lot of problems. He is diabetic and requires insulin shots twice a day, along with a special diet. He can be a finicky eater and occasionally cannot hold down his food. He has intestinal problems that have no cure. His bathroom habits require two large litter boxes.
Billy Cat apparently had a difficult earlier life and it took a very long time for him to start acting like a cat. He wasn’t feral but he acted strange until he got used to us. He became a special project for me. Patience was required. Then, he became very needy, require more attention than any cat I've ever had before. Sometimes, he won't eat until I have petted him for a while.
Billy Cat is a lot of trouble, but he's worth it. He is often a comfort to me and has turned into a fine companion. Sometimes, he will watch television with me on my bed. It takes him a while to settle down. But when he does, he lays down between my chest and right arm, then puts his head on my shoulder, turning around occasionally to look up at me. If you ever saw that look, then you know why Billy Cat is worth the trouble.
Pity the heart so cold that it cannot be warmed by an admiring look from a grateful pet.