This is so hard, Rachel. It seems as though you're going through a situation similar to what I did with Reggie -- your cat's health is declining rapidly due to age at the same time that your life is becoming more stressful. I understand your guilt and confusion about your motives for euthanizing Cocoa.
In my mind, it comes down to this: Cocoa has had a LONG, loving life with you. At this point, her quality of life has diminished greatly. I think the move to the new apartment would be very disruptive and stressful for her. I think the kindest thing you could do is euthanize her. It is a terribly hard thing to go through (for you), but, unfortunately, it's part of being a responsible pet owner.
I would recommend holding her while she passes. Again, it sounds awful, but I think it will give her some comfort, and you will feel the weight of life taken from her little shoulders.
I'll also add that I haven't felt guilty about euthanizing Reggie. I know it was the right thing to do. In fact, I feel relief, because I know he is not in any discomfort at all. Surprisingly, it seems I went through most of my grief before he was gone. I still miss him, but I think we're both at peace.
I hope this helps. You're in my thoughts through all of this.
Re: So HardpaninogirlFebruary 9 2010, 15:46:48 UTC
Thanks, Lauri. Given you went through this recently, I was hoping I'd get some advice from you. I have been very worried about moving her, as well as her diminishing health. While nothing seems immediately life-threatening at this point, I don't want her to suffer any more than she already may be.
As difficult as it is, I think putting her down before the move is the best thing I can do for her. And, as everyone has mentioned, it is the most responsible thing to do as her owner.
In my mind, it comes down to this: Cocoa has had a LONG, loving life with you. At this point, her quality of life has diminished greatly. I think the move to the new apartment would be very disruptive and stressful for her. I think the kindest thing you could do is euthanize her. It is a terribly hard thing to go through (for you), but, unfortunately, it's part of being a responsible pet owner.
I would recommend holding her while she passes. Again, it sounds awful, but I think it will give her some comfort, and you will feel the weight of life taken from her little shoulders.
I'll also add that I haven't felt guilty about euthanizing Reggie. I know it was the right thing to do. In fact, I feel relief, because I know he is not in any discomfort at all. Surprisingly, it seems I went through most of my grief before he was gone. I still miss him, but I think we're both at peace.
I hope this helps. You're in my thoughts through all of this.
-Lauri
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As difficult as it is, I think putting her down before the move is the best thing I can do for her. And, as everyone has mentioned, it is the most responsible thing to do as her owner.
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