Working cats (and dogs) may be viewed as nuisances, but if you're disposed to like animals, they can be more than mere farm implements.
Your father really was unusual in his attitude.
He may have been unusual, but that's the way he was. My Mom once told me that that was one of his most attractive qualities, his innate kindness. I wish more people could understand that concern for animals is not a metrosexual quality. I hope my bragging on my father isn't obnoxious, but I wish more people would follow his humane example.
Actually it is not obnoxious at all. We all bring different strengths to the table. I confess tht my attitude towards animals would make me a terrible vet. But we are not all cut out to be vets. :)