Ziggy (stardust)

2009 - 2025

Ziggy and I met July 4th, 2009 on the Southside of San Antonio. I didn’t expect to become a cat mom that evening. I met up with my parents and a few aunts and uncles to partake in festivities. We surrounded an ice chest of celebratory beverages out on the lawn of grandma’s house. The sound of a sudden plunk landing on the cooler interrupted our laughter. One of my uncles shined a light on this scraggly, flea infested kitten with a bent tail in the shape of a witch’s boot and heterochromia eyes. All of us were in awe over this unusual kitkat that craved our attention. My mom suggested I take him home, so the two of us bathed him in the kitchen sink using a dab of dawn then made a kennel out of a beer box to ride alongside me to his forever home.

I wanted to name him Keats because of where we met. Bowie was suggested because of his yellow and blue eyes, but Ziggy suited this spunky feline. Zig was the first pet I took complete care of. I grew up having family dogs, but never had full responsibility of raising another living being until that night. Anyone who met him stared in wonder at his crooked tail. They’d giggle and question me about his unique body.

My boy loved being around company. On many occasions, he’d sit atop the couch, seated behind people’s heads to groom them, mostly those with short hair. His epiphoric eyes wet my face with every lovable head nudge. I’d often have to wipe them dry. He’d look so handsome with a clean face. Daily he’d reach up asking to be held like a child, until the last couple of years. My shoulders were often scarred with cat scratches from the kneading as I’d walk him around the house. Many t-shirts were ruined in those moments from his sharp claws. The companionship and unconditional love he gave is irreplaceable and I’m so grateful he scouted for help and found me.

Ziggy witnessed so many transitional and profound moments in my life. At times, my struggles didn’t allow me to be the best mom. But without a doubt, I loved him with all my heart and tried to make the best decisions raising him.

On May 23rd, I held his paw and heard his last breath. Before leaving the vet’s room, I wiped his eyes one last time, hugged his lifeless body and gave him his final kiss.

Ziggy-boy, you’ve been greatly missed for weeks and you’re finally home again.
You are forever in my heart.
I am forever your mom.
Rest in peace, my beloved companion.