Today, Boxing Day 2007, we are so very sad because our beautiful Barney has been put to sleep.

We adopted him and his brother Mouse in 2004 from Cats Protection and he was a cat in a million. Barney needed no settling in period and he became numero uno from day one. He was the friendliest but most mischievous cat we have ever had with a larger than life character. He wasn't afraid of anything, people, other cats, dogs, he took them all in his stride. He would get his nose into absolutely everything and made it a career to torment our own poor dog. The word "no" did not feature in Barney's dictionary, no matter how many times you said it!

He and Mouse loved to rush around the house like rockets chasing each other and always curling up together to sleep. Outside he adored the sunshine, watching the birds and going off to visit the neighbours.

Over the last few months, it has been heartbreaking to see the light go out of the Barney we know and love due to the ravages of kidney disease and, today, we decided it was time to let him go. As always, he was brave right up until the end.

You brought something really special into our lives Barney, you gave us wonderful companionship and made us laugh endlessly at your antics. You will always have a special place in our hearts. Rest in peace now.

Editors Note:-

Barney is a favourite of us all here at Cats Protection and we will all miss him and hearing of his antics. Barney and Mickey were winners of our 2004 Photo Competition and his antics in happier times are recorded on Your Cat.