SALT the cat was well on the way to recovery after defying the odds to survive a precarious operation just before Christmas in 1991.
And, after using up several of its nine lives, his adventures were set to be the subject of a new book of short stories.
Owner Lindsey Harris, of Galmington, saw 10-year-old Salt defy the odds of 4-1 against to get through an operation to remove an orange-sized growth.
Delighted Lindsey, who was hoping to get the book, called a Pinch of Salt, published, said: "We did not think Salt would come through the operation."
Vet John Booker said: "The odds were against us, but on occasions with this sort of operation, some get through.
"This particular cat has survived remarkably well."
Lindsey added: "I was told that if Salt hadn't had so much love and attention afterwards, he couldn't have got through."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here