What's the worst that could happen?

As I peered behind the small opening in the floor, I could see the doorway in the distance. The entire family would be peacefully resting now in the warmth of the fire. I wanted to be warm too.
I didn't care much for the family. They were far too clean never leaving any scraps of food out. I had to forage always in the alleys at night. However my existance in this house was worth it in the freezing month of January because their house had to be the warmest house on the block. I protected this place fiercely because behind the door of the living room was immense and soul affirming heat. A warmth that would guarantee that I could sleep tonight. Even an animal cannot live healthfully without rest.
I looked left and right and in the darkness tried to detect the family housecat. I didn't see anything but it didn't mean she wasn't there. Every night I try this I am shaking with fear. One good pounce and my entire life ceases to exist. I breathe deeply and press my small ear to the floor above me. Perhaps, if I listen close enough I could detect the cat's movements through the vibrations in the floor.
Nothing.
Damn this cat.
I looked again at the doorway. My whole body ached and I knew I would have to make the decision soon. I make this dash quite frequently so I usually know when I am ready. Everytime, for a few seconds, my body tenses up and I think to myself I just have to run for it. 1-2-3 GO! But then a pause for a second with fear and out of nowhere as if propelled by a force bigger than myself I quickly climb out of my watch post and slingshot myself across the floor, under the door and quickly behind the couch to rest.
Ok. I listen one more time to the floor. Still nothing. I ready my haunches and in one moment I bolt out of the crack and across the floor. As I run I can see nothing but the doorway. I am strictly focused and adrenaline is pumping through me causing my heart to beat quickly. However, still I am focused.
I have heard of death, that one can sense that this might be the last run. I felt something I had never felt before for one moment. An acknowledgement that the cat was going to win this time. Right as I became aware, my life was over.
The cat had hooked me with her claws just inches before the door. As I looked up at her, soaked in my own blood, I did not have fear. I felt a strange amusement that I wasn't going to just die. Instead, the house cat was going to eat me. Probably while I was still partially alive.