Elliott the Cat

This is Elliott the Cat. Not to be confused with Terry’s son, Elliott the Boy, who also lives here on occasion. I’ve known Elliott the Cat for a long time, maybe 10 years now. Really? Is Elliott that old? Well, I am not sure about that, but for this post, let’s make it so.

Despite knowing Elliott all these years, I am only just this weekend really getting to know what a little character he is.

First off, Elliott is the tiniest adult cat I’ve ever met. Even Olive, Val’s cat across the street back home is bigger than Elliott. Elliott is sporting a Lion Cut this summer which makes him look even smaller, but mightier of course, what with the fluffy tail and regal cheek fur.

The thing I love about cats is that they are so easy to humanize. Not so dogs. I am crazy about Boulder, but it’s hard to describe her overall personality, other than you basic happy go lucky. But cats are a different story. They have complex personalities, just like humans. And Elliott is no exception.

If Elliott were human, he would be a gay man. A very slight, and delicate gay man, with exquisite taste in brandy and a penchant for investment grade clothing. He would right this moment be wearing a silk smoking jacket with an ascot tie. He is really just that elegant. He lifts his paws with the grace of a ballet dancer and his movements are airy and fluid. Although he is slight of build, he sports the kind of portly little belly that comes with age. And from certain angles I can see the old man in him, the old man in undershirt just getting ready to shave.

Like most cats, Elliott feigns indifference at various parts of the day. At these times I am sure he is put off by our casual dress and awkward gait. But I’ve noticed he is consistently in the same room as we are and he frequently comes by for a chin scratching. And at night when we are in bed, he snuggles in with us, keeping our feet warm throughout the night. These are slips I am sure he prefer we not make public as they would surely tarnish his finely honed image.

Elliott, your secret is safe with us.