Tribute to Thomas

Thomas was one of the first "feral" cats rescued by Dane County Friends of Ferals. He was one of those shy, raggedy cats considered unadoptable by the local animal shelter, and he would have been killed had it not been for our founder, who decided to give him a home. Thomas recently passed away due to renal failure. Reprinted here is a tribute to Thomas, beloved companion and family member. Thomas, the "first" feral cat --- the reason that the Dane County Friends of Ferals was born --- passed away in my arms less than an hour ago...

At the time that Thomas entered my life four and a half years ago, I had four indoor cats, three dogs, and two rats in my home. Therefore, I was reluctant to take in another. But, after learning that he would reach a certain death because of his "unsociability," I thought that he would do well as an outdoor kitty in my recently acquired rural home located far off of the road, with an insulated garage and 35 acres of land which to roam. Little did I know that he was to give me so much more than I would ever be able to give him.

In Thomas' first month with me, he had to have all of his teeth extracted because they were all in such bad shape. I fondly remember those days when he would hiss at me with his toothless smile --- deep down, I knew he didn't mean it, just like so many other cats who have entered the DCFoF program. Well, it didn't take long before he would reluctantly allow me to pet him --- which evolved to actually seeking human attention and eventually purrs of affection. He was accepting of all of the other cats who temporarily shared his living quarters during that first year of the DCFoF --- seemingly unfazed by every new arrival and departure. Every morning Thomas would start his day by exiting the cat door in the garage, taking a stroll --- or should I say patrol --- of the property, returning for an afternoon siesta, and then repeat the routine in the evening. But like a well trained dog, after being called in, Thomas would return home at night to be securely "tucked in" (i.e., the kitty door to the garage was locked) so that he would be protected from the unknown dangers of the dark. Even though Thomas lived outside of the living quarters, he was a valued member of the family. I often thought that if I was a cat, I would want to have Thomas' life...

Thomas was first diagnosed with renal failure in February of this year. After spending three days at the UW Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, and charming the clinicians and students alike with his stoic personality --- he even became the subject of a presentation--- he returned home and graciously accepted his changed routine of confinement in the house during the evening and medical treatment with subcutaneous fluids, oral medication, and injections. His days were still filled with the adventures of the great outdoors --- until later this past fall when his mom became too worried about how he would handle the cold. Thomas did incredibly well until this past month, when his disease caused him to stop eating. But like the quintessential cat that he was, his love of man and life pursued --- tolerating even tube feeding by curling up in my lap and purring during the process. Unfortunately, even the steadfast determination of this cat with a huge heart could not overcome the disease that invaded his body. After experiencing a seizure, Thomas died in my arms as I held him. If I have failed him in any way, I hope that he will be able to forgive me.

I dedicate my life's work in memory of Thomas, and all of the animals who have blessed my life. - Susan Krebsbach

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead