Our beloved cat Leo passed away April 2, 2026 at home surrounded by his human and his furry companions.
Leo was adopted into his forever home October 11, 2016 from the Humboldt County Animal Shelter. He lived ten years with us in Eureka on Hill Street. We do not know where Leo spent the many years of his early life or why he was living in the Shelter when we met him.
Leo was a large cat. In his prime, he weighed 20 pounds. We called him “Leo the Lion.” During the last two years of his life, his weight changed dramatically. When he passed his weight was under ten pounds. Even as he faded away, he never lost his strong life force and desire to live and to visit the Dollar Tree or his neighbor and best friend Sands.
Leo was fearless and would chase after dogs he considered threatening. He shared his home at different times with dogs Robin and Sage – with whom he often curled up next to for a nap or for the night. His cat housemates were Cinder and Pirate, and then Gray and Prancer.
Leo was an exceptionally social cat and thrived on the attention of people. He was loved by a vast community of people including his Hill and Searles Street neighbors.
Leo was most well known as the “Dollar Tree Cat.” His many admirers and friends at the Myrtle Avenue store paid special attention to him with his own water bowl and food dish near the entrance to the store. He visited almost daily with the staff and customers, and they rewarded him with edible treats, cuddles, and conversations.
Marlena Folden, D.V.M. cared for Leo during his last years. Our thanks to her and the Broadway Animal Hospital staff, and to all who were Leo’s friends, especially during his last year as his good health slipped away.