If you're not a cat lover, and encounter a cat in this way through reluctant circumstance, you somehow begin to love the cat, thinking that it is the best of all the cats, a 'different' cat, an exception. That's the cat virus at work.
We have to specify NO CATS to prospedtive house sitters when we go away - both for allergies, and in respect for local wildlife here in Australia. My husband can't stand them, though having had an exceptional family cat called Smokey, I too have been smitten by a cat who was VASTLY superior to all other cats.
unique, without peer 😄 Yes, you understand.
I'd love to see a picture of Smokey, although, with that name I can imagine...
I understand the respect for wildlife issue. In some places, cats have completely wiped out ground-nesting birds. We can't just willy-nilly introduce species into novel environments.
There is of course no rational explanation for the affection this cat receives from us. I can point to positive effects on blood pressure and emotional well-being, but, let's face it. Love is irrational. That's OK with me.
Indeed. Thank goodness for love.