How do I know

So we lost Morris on January. Now his brother has CHF. We have a vet visit today and I'm sure the Vet will recommend putting him to sleep. We have had a chest tap done twice and it helps for a few days until the fluid builds up again. He is still healthy in every other way, he eats, drinks and uses the litter box. He just has no energy and sits and stares at the ground a lot. He didn't eat much this morning but he scratched on his scratcher box(morning ritual) His breathing is very labored.

How do I know if it is too early?

This is a very difficult decision to make. Sometimes actually writing things out helps. Make a list of all the things your cat enjoys then look at how many of those things your cat can no longer do. Another thing to look at is if he is in pain. Sometimes you also just know in your heart when it is time.

As long as he is actually doing some of the things he loves, he is still enjoying life. Yes he may be slower and is adjusting to what he is going through, but you will know when it is time. He will not move much at all, his eyes will dull, and he will seek out hiding places to try to escape something he does not understand. My cat is on lasix right now to try to diminish the fluid around his heart, so I know how painful it is to watch a beloved family member slow down, My heart goes out to you. Just give him his heart's desires, and comfort him in any way you can, it is all you can do, all anyone can do. You have given him a wonderful home and a lifetime of love, it is all he ever wanted. Although it hurts us so very much to lose them, you can't let him suffer, his breathing will give you a sign when it is time. I'll pray that he peacefully goes in his sleep at home, it is as I would pray for my own, but we must be prepared to step in when we are needed to be strong, it is up to us to be strong for the helpless. Your vet had been there a thousand times, let him advise you on what to look for and when the pain of living gets to be too much, he may be able to give you a sedative to inject when it becomes unbearable and you can't get to the vet soon enough, it brings peace of mind. You might ask if the vet can visit your home when it is time, many will, and it is less frightening in a familiar surrounding.  May you be blessed for loving that sweet little cat and bringing him into your home and hearts, I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers..

We will lock this thread now, out of respect for Hurley, who has now passed on.

If you would like to leave your respects, For Morris has a Crossing the Bridge thread in his honour.