My rescue kitty who was feral never let anyone else pet him until tonight.

[talkingmime]

13. I was really ill two weeks ago. My 16 year old cat wouldn't leave my side.

Well, he did if one of my kids or my wife or my service dog came in to watch over me, but he was the main sentry. He only left to eat, drink, and use the litter box. They just know. My wife's sick right now (high fever) and he's with her, as is her dog (my service dog) and best I can tell they haven't left her alone at any point. Somebody is always on watch.

There was a cat in the news some time ago (forget when or where) who lived in an elderly care facility and so reliably predicted upcoming deaths by cuddling up to the individual that the staff eventually used it as a sign to call next of kin.

I'm very sorry to hear about your mother, but I am glad that she had furry company at the end. I can only hope to be so lucky. Take care of that cat. If we have souls there's a good chance we can transfer the essense to another. Either way, the cat did an honorable and wonderful thing.