Writing with Pets

Most of us authors have pets at home, and writing with these furry babies hanging around can be quite challenging.

There are the headbutts, the biting of laptop edges, the stretching over the keyboard, the climbing over the desk or shelves, the constant falling of objects, the chair scratching, and, of course, the never-ending meowing or barking to get your attention. Sometimes it can be frustrating, especially when you are on a deadline. But other times, it can be funny, comforting, and relaxing (especially if they fall asleep and you can watch them dozing).

A few months ago, I lost one of my furry kids, a beautiful Exotic Persian called Roberto. I had him for thirteen years, and he was my shadow. He even had his own Instagram page and a huge following. Losing him so suddenly (he had a heart attack) made me realize just how pivotal he had become to my writing process. After his death, I had a month-long writer’s block. Then my other furry baby (well, she’s fifteen, so she’s older than me in cat years) took his place and now joins me whenever I’m writing. It helped me a lot with my writer’s block and my healing.

What I have learned throughout all of this is not to take your furry writing companions for granted. They are good for your writing and your mental well-being. Enjoy them.