Need advice on senior cat.

Tagged: Advice

This topic has 10 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 7 years, 9 months ago by lagatta.

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11 June, 2016 at 2:31 am #848500

Rod
Participant

My 17 year old cat has recently developed two serious conditions. She needs meds and daily trips to the vet for treatments. She is not taking this well. When is it kinder do let her go than keep up the treatments. She also no longer is interested in interacting with me, she stays in the kitchen all the time. This afternoon she was hiding behind the clothes washer.

11 June, 2016 at 2:49 am #848501

Kittyzee
Participant

I’m so sorry Rod, you precious kitty sounds like she is tired. You (and she)are the only ones that can make this decision, and it’s a tough one to be sure. When you feel that her quality of life is so poor, or that she is suffering in pain then you have to weigh the pros and cons. I hope you have a compassionate vet also that you can discuss this with and will help you with your decision.

11 June, 2016 at 4:53 am #848505

Anonymous
Inactive

Hi Rod,

Your girl associates you with the nasty meds/treatments and so she hides from you. You’re so unsure; You know it’s time… but then you really don’t. she’s your beloved fur baby and the one you raised, shared so much with, and adored unconditionally throughout. Purrhaps you should sleep with her. You may wake up and she lets you know the time is right. Vets. sometimes believe “Do no harm” is the better advice. If you have a trusting relationship with your veterinarian, you’ll likely have talked death before the fact. But have you asked what would you do if it’s their loved furry one?

Warm thoughts for you and your girl.

PG

11 June, 2016 at 4:25 pm #848520

Rod
Participant

I took Junior to the vet today and decided to take her off the kidney treatments. He said she could be around the house in comfort for anywhere from a couple of weeks to a year depending on how fast her kidneys go. If she starts to be in difficulty, I will take her back and they will help her out of it.

11 June, 2016 at 4:47 pm #848523

CatWScotia
Participant

I think you’ve made the right decision, Rod. If the medication was distressing her, then taking her off it will give her a respite, though as you realise it will probably shorten her remaining time.

Just try to spend that time letting her know that you love her, and being happy together. And when the time does come . . . you will have some comfort in knowing that her last memories are good ones, not fear and distress.

It’s hard on you, I know. We’re all thinking of you here at TDK – we’ve been there too. Best of wishes.

11 June, 2016 at 6:47 pm #848525

Kittyzee
Participant

Yes Rod, I agree with CWS. It’s a distressing time to watch the sweet cat you have spent 17 years with, be ill and then to have to add to that by administering meds. I would do just what you are doing, letting nature take it’s due course. She will let you know when it’s time. My heart is sad for you. May you have wonderful and memorable moments until that time comes. It’s all any of us can ask for.

3 July, 2016 at 7:57 pm #849308

Rod
Participant

Junior passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Sunday, July 3.

Thanks to everyone for their encouragement and advice.

3 July, 2016 at 8:26 pm #849310

CatWScotia
Participant

I’m sad to hear that she’s gone – and I do understand your feelings, only too well. But she was, as you say, at peace. Not in pain or distress.

That is a real blessing. I hope you’ll be able to take some comfort from that.

3 July, 2016 at 10:12 pm #849313

Kittyzee
Participant

Rod, I’m sorry your friend of such a long time is gone. That she passed in her sleep says to me that it was peaceful and she was ready to go. It’s a testament to your love for her that she was able to do that. Thank you for letting us know the outcome. Peace to you and comfort in the days to come.

4 July, 2016 at 12:06 am #849320

katzenjammer
Participant

Sorry for your loss, Rod.

4 July, 2016 at 2:04 am #849323

lagatta
Participant

Rod, my beloved Renzo (20 years, 3 months) did the same almost 3 weeks ago. I’m beside myself with grief and don’t think I’ve ever loved anyone of any species more than him. But at least he died in his sleep after a lot of cuddling.
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