Every veteran has a story.
Some involve bravery, grit, and service. Others involve a slightly wonky rescue cat with half a tail and the confidence of a full-rank officer.
This is the tale of Sir Odin Montgomery — known at home as Dins, call sign 6, Colonel of the Cat Commandos, Tier One operative, and professional snack thief.
And this is his human: Chris, my husband, a veteran of the 1st Battalion, Queen's Lancashire Regiment — a proper Lancashire lad through and through.
Together, they make quite the pair.
How Odin Arrived in Our Lives
We found Odin as a tiny rescue kitten. He came with:
- a bent front leg
- half a tail
- and a personality far too big for his small body
But none of that slowed him down. If anything, it made him more determined to take over the house — and eventually, the entire neighbourhood.
From day one, he strutted around like he owned the place. And honestly… he still does.
The Cat Commandos
Odin isn't just any cat. He's the self-appointed Colonel of the Cat Commandos, leading a six-cat squad on covert missions across gardens, fences, and the occasional shed roof.
His elite team includes:
- Drippy
- Strangley Brown
- John
- John (yes, two Johns — it's classified)
- and his second-in-command, Toby Toe Beans (known simply as Beans)
Their operations include:
- ambushing leaves
- patrolling the alley
- tactical zoomies
- and dramatic slow-motion chase scenes for absolutely no reason
If MI5 ever needs feline support, they know where to find him.
Chris & Odin: A Veteran and His Shadow
Chris served in the 1st Battalion QLR, and like many veterans, he's got a soft spot for the underdog — or in this case, the under-cat.
Odin follows him everywhere. If Chris sits, Odin sits. If Chris stands, Odin stands. If Chris opens a packet of crisps… Odin is already there, eyes wide, ready for action.
They're inseparable. A veteran and his furry little battle buddy.
Favourite Snack: Lamb Puffs
Odin's absolute favourite treat — the one that turns him from Colonel to Gremlin in seconds — is our Lamb Puffs.
100% dried lamb lung. No fillers. No rubbish. Just pure, crunchy goodness.
Cats love them. Dogs love them. Odin would probably trade state secrets for a bag.
He hears the rustle and suddenly he's alert, tactical, and ready to breach the kitchen door like he's back on a mission.
Why This Blog Exists
"Vets and Their Pets" is all about celebrating the bond between veterans and the animals who keep them grounded, laughing, and loved.
Odin might be small, slightly wonky, and missing half a tail… but he's got the heart of a lion and the loyalty of a soldier.
And Chris? Well, he wouldn't swap him for the world.
Are you a veteran with a pet who deserves their moment in the spotlight? We'd love to feature you. Get in touch — we're always looking for the next story.