Huckle, the Aging Tabby

Animals bring such joy and laughter to a home when they’re young and frisky.  But aging pets arouse feelings of tenderness and vulnerability as we come to grips with the reality that our time together won’t last forever.  And that we, too, are growing older.

Vicki and her grey tabby Huckle have shared 18 good years.  He is the same age as Vicki’s youngest child.  In his younger days, Huckle was the family provider, hunting and gathering rodents and birds to share with his loved ones.  With her two eldest children living independently and the loss of the family dog last year, Vicki and her husband noticed Huckle was lonely so they adopted two kittens from their local shelter.  The young cats have camaraderie with Huckle but he remains king of his domain.

Vicki watches Huckle experiencing the same age-related and generational problems that humans do.  The young felines are fun, spry, and curious while Huckle has health problems and requires watchful care.  “That’s what happens as we all age,” Vicki observes.  With so much history together, Vicki gravitates to Huckle at this stage of his life because “he’s got the roots and that’s the difference.” 

            

Huckle likes to sneak up onto Vicki’s chest in the morning, enjoy a little petting and get brushed.  It used to be a daily ritual but he doesn’t seem to tolerate touch as easily these days.  The routine has now expanded to include the two younger cats as well and sometimes togetherness is all Huckle requires.  That, and the heating pad Vicki provides for him to sleep on.

            

When Huckle seemed to be losing ground last month, Vicki wondered if it was his time.  But when the older children returned from college, he roused and regained a little of his old self.  Because Huckle is deft at communicating with Vicki through looks and behavior, she feels confident she’ll know when their time together is ending.

            

For now she appreciates Huckle’s warm little body snuggled against her own and his comforting purrs breaking the early morning silence.  Huckle reminds Vicky every day about the value of history, friendship, and loyalty that comes with sharing life with animals.  He won’t always be a part of her life, but he’ll always be a part of her.

By Elizabeth Sundstrom