Zoey always loved the holidays—especially the warmth of the Christmas tree’s lights.

It’s the holidays, and I’m trying very hard to manage the pain amongst the joy. I miss my beloved Zoey so much. I’ve been living in relative denial, not truly believing her last breath was taken in my arms, the late evening of November 19. But something simple—pulling out the Christmas stockings, each one embroidered with my cat’s name, was a harsh jolt that she’s not with me. I carry the sadness in my heart every moment of the day. Still, I’m trying to be grateful for what I have—my dear family, friends, Dan, and my remaining clowder—Mia, Peanut, Rolz, Kizmet, Jazmine, and Shadow.

I’m sorry if I’ve brought anyone down. I’m just speaking the truth of my heart. But I didn’t want the day to pass without letting you know how blessed I am to have you all as part of Zee and Zoey’s Cat Connection. Take care, Happy Holidays, and see you next year.

Who knew a cat so small could leave a hole in the heart so big?

Zoey was my dream cat—one I had wished for long before I ever held her. In mid-2008, several months after losing my beloved tabby, Kit, I found myself aching for light in a house that felt dim with grief. Even surrounded by my other feline companions—Whitney, Jazz, Zee, our loyal dog Bandit, and my fiancé, Dan—there was a heaviness that settled into every room. We all felt it. We needed a bright spot, and on June 14, Dan and I made the hour-long drive to a Bengal cattery to pick up my chosen girl, not knowing just how much she would significantly impact our lives.

June 15, 2008 – Zoey’s first photo.

I already had the name Zoey in my mind. It just felt right, and the moment I laid eyes on her— a tiny and beautiful bundle of spotted fluff—I fell in love. She was a fuzzy slip of a thing that fit perfectly in the palm of my hands. When I placed her in the carrier to bring her home, I was unprepared for the intensity of her reaction. She had a relentless, blood-curdling noise that bleated from her little lungs, and her petite paws had a death grip on the carrier with incredible strength, trying to pry it open to make her escape for freedom. She screamed like a wild banshee the entire trip home. This vocalization would soon be revealed as trademark Zoey forevermore.

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The handsome model in this photo is our Shadow.

From our house to yours, wishes for a blessed Thanksgiving filled with love, light, and good food. Take care, be kind, and savor each moment given to you.

It’s that time of the year again. Not only do we celebrate Kizmet’s birthday, but we also celebrate the 4th of July. Kizmet is now 13, and the United States is 249 years old! Kizmet has aged well. He is one of the sweetest cats I’ve ever known and continues to fill our home and hearts with love and endless devotion. Happy Birthday, buddy! Wishes for many more! Read more

Since Zoey came into our lives in 2008 as a tiny kitten, she’s been Queen of the Castle. Small in size but never small in personality or in letting everyone know she’s the boss! 17 years later, the same holds true. Perhaps the only difference is that the older she gets, the louder her demands become. But, she’s our girl, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! We are so blessed for her presence, as are her kittens – Peanut, Mia, and Rolz – who still snuggle with her daily.

Happy Birthday, Zoey!!

2008 – Zoey at 3 months old

Zoey at two years old

Zoey surrounded by her kittens – Peanut, Mia, and Rolz (2025)