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- May 7, 2011
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what a great post WT1964...
Laura Mae, I hated to hear about Estella and now Charlie. My daughter recently lost Lexi, her little five pound 16-year-old. It sounds like the very same thing happened to Charlie and to Lexi. Lexi was never absolutely diagnosed; the aspirations were never conclusive for lymphoma, although three vets agreed that's what she had. She too had an abdominal growth, although they weren't sure where it was, exactly (kidney, liver or abdomen). Strangely, her blood work showed the metabolic profile of a 4-year-old cat. She lasted three months. She had more and more problems with fluid retention and therefore use of her back legs as time went on. The day we finally made the decision, the vet said that the tumor had wrapped around her spinal cord and would go to her brain next. Lexi had some quality time with her mom and her brother and sisters during those three months, but she was on Buprenex constantly. I believe that Charlie was comfortable and at peace if she too was on it. And I promise you, it's better to make that decision a bit too early than one day too late. You honored your commitment to Charlie and to Estella and your love for both of them. Bless you, sweetie. I know how hard this is.
It was peaceful. The vet gave her a nice sedative so she went to sleep in my arms and on her favorite blanket. it was the first time in a few days that she felt just fine, I believe. It was the right thing at the right time. It that helps in thinking about it. The hardest part is the waiting to decide and waiting once the decision has been made.
To me it sounds like it was the right time. Especially when you describe her last day, but then also the good moments/bad moments. Sixteen and a half is a testament to your care with hyperthyroid issues. Kidney problems are not unusual in elderly cats and when they fail it's awful for the kitty. She knew you loved her. As my niece told me, that last memory they have is of blissful sleep with you there. I'm very sorry you lost your dear friend. At that age, they have been through a big part of your life.I put my ball of purr and fur to sleep 2 days ago, and have been searching for others that have been through it. Luna was 16 and a half, hyperthyroid problems for two years, but suddenly her kidneys started failing. I made the decision to put her to rest because I didn't want her to suddenly decline as my other cat had almost a decade ago where I was forced to make the decision to put her to sleep. I ask myself if I did it too early, it hurts, but I know I did the right thing. She still had good moments, but also had quite a few bad ones. The morning I took her in she had thrown up green bile. I carry the agony now so she will never have to. That was my final gift to her, and her gift to me was her lifetime of love, affection, company, and memories. I know the pain will ease, but it seems the more love you have the more intense the pain you'll feel over their loss.
I'm so sorry. Peace to you.I have to let my old girl Trouble go today. These words have helped me greatly, as they did before. Thank you.