The bond between a pet and their owner is a special and unique relationship that can bring immense joy, but also challenges. Mary Gaitskill, the author of this article, shares her personal experience with her cat, Suki, and the struggles they faced together. Gaitskill adopted Suki when she was just six months old, and their relationship was filled with love and companionship until a dramatic upheaval caused tension between them.
In 1991, Gaitskill found herself contemplating taking Suki to the ASPCA, where she would likely be euthanized. This decision revealed a side of herself that she never knew existed. The thought of parting ways with her beloved pet made her question the depth of their bond and the impact it had on her life. The relationship with an animal can truly reveal aspects of ourselves that we may not have been aware of before.
Growing up with cats as pets, Gaitskill didn’t have a cat as an adult until she was 30. When Suki came into her life unexpectedly, their bond was instant. Suki was a smart and affectionate cat who brought joy and energy into Gaitskill’s life. However, as their living situation changed and Gaitskill’s work schedule became demanding, their relationship faced challenges.
The small studio apartment in Manhattan where they lived was not ideal for Suki’s needs. Gaitskill’s long work hours and exhaustion made it difficult to provide Suki with the attention and space she required. This led to moments of frustration and tension between them, as Suki’s energy clashed with Gaitskill’s need for rest.
Despite the challenges, Gaitskill tried to make things work by giving Suki more space and taking her out for walks. However, the situation escalated when Gaitskill’s decision to adopt a kitten named Honus disrupted the delicate balance between them. Suki’s reaction to the newcomer was one of hostility and aggression, leading to a strained and tense environment in their home.
As the situation worsened, Gaitskill was faced with a difficult decision. The vet suggested that the only way to improve the situation was to remove either Suki or Honus from the home. This heartbreaking choice forced Gaitskill to confront her feelings of anger and frustration towards Suki, as well as her love for the kitten.
In a moment of clarity, a friend’s words helped Gaitskill realize the depth of her bond with Suki. The thought of parting ways with her beloved cat filled her with regret and sadness. Ultimately, Gaitskill decided to rehome Honus and focus on rebuilding her relationship with Suki.
The process of reintegrating Suki into their home was slow and challenging, but eventually, their bond was restored. Suki’s acceptance and affection towards Gaitskill reaffirmed the strength of their connection and the importance of their relationship.
In the end, Gaitskill’s experience with Suki taught her valuable lessons about love, patience, and the complexities of interspecies relationships. The bond between a pet and their owner is a powerful and transformative experience that requires understanding, compassion, and a willingness to overcome challenges together.
