I know. My sister has a big pit bull, a poodle and a big fat orange tabby cat. They jump into bed with my sister and her husband at night to sleep, and the pit bull and cat curl up together. I know pit bulls have a bad repuation, but this one, although he will bark at strangers, is a big baby to those he is familiar with. Whenever I go into her house he's jumping up at me, licking me, and when I sit down he tries to climb into my lap.
MD5, having a cat for 20 years and losing him is exactly like losing a child you nurtured and raised, but to a greater extent. A son by that time actually shuns close contact or interaction...a pet only gets more attached (note that I don't think kids ever get less "worthy", only that they get focused on "making their own way", while pets always need and appreciate you!)
Don Joe, I can personally say that your plea has made my evening, week, and year. It stirs compassion in me that the political discussions tend to dampen. Thanks. I will dream of a faceless Jessie this night. God bless her, you, and yours.