You’re going to think I’ve lost my mind. But since I’m told the internet is made of cats…I couldn’t resist this one. Whatever you want to say about pet photos (I’m usually on the front lines of vigorous head-shaking when it comes to this well-known and over-saturated genre) this series of “cat photos” stopped me in my tracks.
Far from a run-of-the-mill pet gallery, these are poignant images, deeply textured and as much about life in rural Japan and aging as the adorable relationship between a white cat and elderly woman. Photographer Miyoko Ihara starting taking photos of her 88-year old grandmother and her feline companion, Fukumaru, more than a decade ago. The work is now in a photo book Misao the Big Mama and Fukumaru the Cat. As I’m sure anyone who has loved a pet can attest to, there is more than meets the eye to our relationships with our animal friends. This book of photos depicts an undeniably special connection between Misa and Fukumaru and does a wonderful job of demonstrating that powerful connection of between pets and their humans.
The photos capture not just the playful moments but also the quiet, reflective ones — the kind that reveal the depth of their bond. Anyone who has ever shared their life with a pet knows that it’s not just about the cute, Instagram-worthy moments; it’s about the unspoken understanding and the comfort that pets bring into our lives. Whether it’s the way they seem to sense our mood or how they curl up next to us during difficult times, that connection is irreplaceable. Just like Misa and Fukumaru’s story, the relationships we form with our pets are filled with love, trust, and the bittersweet awareness that our time together is limited — which is what makes it so precious.
When the time does come to say goodbye, it’s never easy. Having the right support during such a difficult moment can make all the difference. That’s where services like cat euthanasia Melbourne provide a compassionate solution, allowing pets to pass peacefully in the comfort of their own home. Rather than facing the stress of a clinical environment, having a trusted mobile vet come to you ensures that your pet’s final moments are surrounded by love and familiarity. It’s a difficult decision, but one made out of the deepest care and respect for the bond you’ve shared.
See below for my favorites and check out the book for the full collection.
All Photos: Miyoko Ihara
This is so great you got every bit of her life……Nice pics really impressive.
One cat does not a cat lady make. A “cat lady” must have a ridiculous amount of cats, typically 10+. That being said, I’m not fond of cats but these photos are adorable and its heartwarming to see the close relationship between Misao and Fukumaru.
So your not down with the pet photographers then?
Okay, that’s a relief. I assumed “cat lady” meant swarms of cats and a mentally ill person. Some of these are actually sort of nice (although I’m still not a fan of the genre, either).
Nice to see photography be a testament to a great relationship, people think I am strange when I miss my cat. My cat is my best friend, unconditional love, non judgemental and allows you to be yourself. These photos have none of the fourth wall falseness of normal pet photos, these are candid momemts of time. Beautifully shot and heartwarming, I photograph my cat and I unashamed to do so even as a pro photographer.
Love this and the last shot pleads you to ask for more, that is the mark of a true photographer,
Thanks for sharing this, really made my day
Rich
You’re a good man Rich. Your cat knows that 🙂
He must be part of the ISCS (International Spoiled Cats Society)
Francois.
Our 5 cats are all a part of that society as well! I will NEVER be ashamed to photograph my cats or to post their pictures as you just never know when the pictures may be all you have left of them. They will live on forever in the pictures I take of them and I will cherish those for as long as I live.