I live in fear - true, cold, debilitating terror - of my cat dying, even though she's surely got anywhere from 5 to 10 years still left on the clock. These strange, joyful, fearful, psychopathic creatures can achieve such a hold on our lives and affections. Maybe it's just the toxoplasmosis speaking, but young Ripley's chirruping presence in my house makes for a tangible improvement…