Top 10 blog posts in February 2026. #9. Jack, the Mildly Afflicted
Jack resting in a warm and comfy place Yesterday morning, one-eyed, super resilient Jack was sunning himself on the cat porch like a small, benevolent emperor. By evening, he had transformed into a tragic Victorian poet. His nose was damp, his energy low, and he retreated first into a comfy cat bed and then under the bed in the master bedroom to contemplate the fragility of life. Naturally, I assumed the worst. Naturally, he refused treats. Naturally, I began mentally drafting a eulogy. Cats have a gift for collapsing into existential despair at the first hint of a sniffle. Jack, usually a steady and unflappable soul, spent the entire day in one spot, staring into the middle distance like a cat who had seen too much. He purred when I checked on him, but only in the weary, world‑weary way of someone who wants gentle affection and absolutely no sudden movements. I considered steam therapy. I considered calling the vet. I considered whether eucalyptus tabs were safe (they are not). ...
