I adopted Sheba when she was two, as a companion for Fidget. She was nine pounds at the time, and enjoyed being outdoors on a leash much of the day. Since that was not possible in my apartment while I was away at work, she quickly "blossomed" to 16 pounds. She has since lost some of that weight, but wistfully sits in the windows imagining herself romping the neighborhood.

I wish I had more photos of Sheba to put up here, but it's difficult for a layperson to get good images of a black cat. I believe her breed closely resembles the Bombay, developed in America. She is very much like the breed description. She's built like a small puma, is a graceful and agile jumper and has a low-key personality. She doesn't talk much, but when she does it's a surprisingly kittenish mew. Surprising coming from such a sturdily-built cat.

Sheba and I have grown to love one another deeply over the years. My initial reaction upon seeing her was a gasp at her beauty. But she was cool about getting to know me. That was okay. I have always treated her with love and respect, and she has returned my efforts tenfold.

Now she tends to follow me around wherever I go. If I create a lap, she's in it, purring and chirping happily. Although Fidget thoroughly enjoys riding on the "shoulder taxi", he has never really been a lap cat. Sheba is. She is also very intuitive. When I am tired or upset, she will find me and comfort me. Her warm, soft body and gentle purring always manage to calm me. And lately, as she ages, she has shown an increasing interest in kitten play. What fun it is to see a small puma chasing milk jug rings and ladybird beetles!