This is the story of the night my ten-year-old cat, Rudy, got his head stuck in the garbage disposal. I knew at the time that the experience would be funny if the cat survived, so let me tell you right up front that he's fine. Getting him out wasn't easy, though, and the process included numerous home remedies, a plumber, two cops, an emergency overnight veterinary clinic, a case of mistaken identity, five hours of panic, and fifteen minutes of fame.

"Rudy is doing well, considering he will be 15 years old in August. He is still getting lots of fan mail about his garbage disposal adventure, but he hasn't let it go to his head (pun intended). Actually, he DOES still check in the sink for food scraps, but our new disposal has a cover.

OK, an update. He is an aging cat, and has his share of medical problems: liver, kidneys, etc., all of which we control with a special diet. He also developed a seizure disorder about 1.5 years after the disposal incident (probably caused by the head trauma), but that is controlled by valium. So Rudy is mellow-in semi-retirement, I'd say, but still funny and friendly and affectionate. His littermate brother Lowell died 2 years ago, and Rudy grieved so hard that we got him a kitten. Rudy and his new brother adore each other, and the younger cat has gotten Rudy back into playful habits. So he's aging, and he can't jump very high any more, but he has a good life, and he's still enjoying it.

I attach a picture of Rudy, as you requested, and one of him and his new brother, Albert.

Rudy got an email from Australia yesterday, so his fame still spreads-thanks to folks like you.

Best,

Patti"