Aw, thanks for all the messages - it's really appreciated.
I knew that you lot would understand . . . . .
Alfie seems a lot brighter today. I know that purrs may not always be happy purrs but when they are accompanied by persistent nudging of the backs of your legs when cooking or by repeated headbonks when trying to type, or continued patting when you are not paying attention to him, or when you are rubbing his offered tummy, I would guess that they are not purrs of pain!
But it's always good to know; I think most people only think cats purr when they are blissed out!
I shall keep an eye on his eating. I've seen him drink now, which makes me feel a whole lot better. They will be having supper soon so will tempt him with something tasty then.
Bungly - glad to hear that Smartie is on the mend - maybe you can get some more restful sleep now, huh?!
Thanks again, all. I know that these big chaps have only been in our home for 10 days but it seems like they've been in our hearts for ever.