smitten by a cat who was VASTLY superior to all other cats.

unique, without peer 😄 Yes, you understand.

I'd love to see a picture of Smokey, although, with that name I can imagine...

I understand the respect for wildlife issue. In some places, cats have completely wiped out ground-nesting birds. We can't just willy-nilly introduce species into novel environments.

There is of course no rational explanation for the affection this cat receives from us. I can point to positive effects on blood pressure and emotional well-being, but, let's face it. Love is irrational. That's OK with me.