I know, I know, it's a cat pic. But I never had any time for cats, especially when this little sucker, as a kitten, crept into my bed and shat just by my left ear. We had words and it's been rosy ever since.

I've mellowed and she's a "campo cat" outside all year and follows me round like a dog, almost into the town sometimes. Freaks my daughter out, should we take her home, Dad... The cat's more savvy than some of the people in town.

The cat never complains, raised two small litters before the op to save us all from the trials of another litter. I must be getting old and sentimental.

I recall a saying about your attitude to animals says a lot about how you are with people. oh well, I hope nobody takes it the wrong way when I tickle them under the chin.