January 21, 2008

  • Poor Kitty Kitty

    I had to take my cat, Jesse-boy, back to the vet this morning.  He was having trouble in the litter box, etc.  The vet determined he doesn't have tumors or any blockage.  While I was waiting for the vet to come into the exam room, I noticed Jesse-boy dragging his tail on the ground.  When I lifted it, it fell, limp, back on the ground.  Uh, oh!

    It was decided, after a VERY thorough exam, that he is suffering from neurological deterioration and probably doesn't have much feeling in his organs and tail.  Eventually it will take over more of his body, but he's not on death's door - not today.  Thus, the decision to give him a steroid shot and bring him home. 

    He still purrs, "talks" to me, and eats well; and, those signs, all combined, mean he has a bit of time left.  This coming Saturday, I will have had him 18 years.  He was already 1-2 years old when I got him, a stray.  So, I'm realistic with my expectations, but also hate to play God by having him euthenized before necessary.  I'm all for putting a pet out of their misery when in pain, but not before that moment.  I think, as humans, we should have the right to stop others from trying to "save us" or prolong our life when the end is inevitable.

    This will mean a little extra care, on my part (and Jesse-husband is helping) because that's what geriatrics is all about.  But, he's been a wonderful cat companion for all of these years and I do my "duty" willingly.

    Pray, if you will, that my cat's remaining life is spent comfortably and my sanity (as the ultimate outcome will eventually come to pass) remains intact.

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