Balthazar
I like to think of myself as the cat who started something rather special.
I was the very first rescue cat to move into The Pussy Palace, but before that, I lived at a busy colony in Parnell with my brothers, Nero and Whiskey, and plenty of other feline friends. Life wasn't always easy, but we looked out for one another.
Being a handsome jet-black fellow certainly had its advantages, although I wasn't feeling very handsome when one of my canine teeth became so loose I could barely eat. The vet soon sorted that out, and I felt much better afterwards.
Not long after, I found myself in trouble again when another cat left me with a nasty bite wound on my shoulder. I was limping badly, and although I normally trusted the people who fed me, I suddenly became very suspicious. Every time they arrived, I disappeared! I knew they were up to something.
Eventually they caught me - and, as it turned out, it was the best thing that ever happened to me.
Before long, my brothers Nero and Whiskey joined me, and together we became known as the "Three Musketeers." Later, our good friend Nudger came along too, and our little family was complete.
Life at The Pussy Palace suited me perfectly. I was relaxed, affectionate, and always happy to share a smooch with anyone who stopped by. I made wonderful friends, enjoyed the comfort and safety of sanctuary life, and somehow found myself becoming the unofficial King of The Pussy Palace.
Now, I should mention one thing... I adored people - right up until someone tried to put me in a cat carrier. The moment I realised I was heading to the vet, I became a completely different cat. Growling, glaring, and pretending I'd never met anyone before became my special talent. More often than not, the vet decided it was easier to sedate me before attempting an examination. I wasn't proud of it... but I wasn't sorry either!
I was lucky enough to spend around 18 wonderful years on this earth, surrounded by friends, love, and everything a cat could wish for.
Although I'm no longer there to greet visitors or rule over my kingdom, I'll always be part of The Pussy Palace. After all, every great story has to begin somewhere... and I'm honoured that mine was the very first.
