Well, as an update on this thread.
Last week our cat became very sick, and, to cut a long story short, we had the very upsetting duty of having to have him put to sleep this morning. My wife and I were, understandably, very upset; we've only had him for just over three months. I feel so guilty now. The cat had done everything right, just what cats do, it was me who was ungrateful, took him for granted. I really learned the true meaning of the phrase "to be served right". I only wish that I had done more for the little fella, played with him more, let him outside, given in now and then. Now it's too late.