Comments | np_complete: 'Tis done

np_complete

'Tis done

Apr 11, 2009 19:35

I took my sister down to the vet with me, for support. My cat was visibly weak, visibly impaired -- he could barely walk -- and visibly unhappy. We spent some time cuddling him, but although he may have licked our hands once, he seemed to take little comfort from it, and let out the saddest meows I've ever heard. The vet explained how the ( Read more... )

cat

Comments 17

starmalachite April 13 2009, 14:15:35 UTC

np_complete April 16 2009, 00:10:39 UTC

I'm so sorry. These things are never easy. But I've been there a number of times & can tell you that knowing you did everything you could does help eventually. Remembering how much he loved you -- and you loved him -- will eventually help more, even if it hurts like crazy now.

Thank you very much. I'm still sort of frozen up inside, only getting tearful when I talk about him (and about how kind people have been.) I'm told this is not unusual for the first few days.

Thanks again for your kind words and good wishes. I appreciate them very much.

sensiblecat April 14 2009, 13:25:36 UTC

Oh dear, I feared it would come to this (I've been away a day or two and I'm now catching up). Although it's no doubt, on one level, a relief to have the decision over with, I do feel for you, knowing how much he meant to you. Hugs are being sent your way and I hope you'll be able to remember the happy times, the fact that you did all you possibly could for him and that he ended his time without fear and in your loved company.

np_complete April 16 2009, 00:15:04 UTC

Thank you for the good wishes and comfort. I'm still a bit hollow inside, but I'm told that this is not unusual for the first few days. Once we have the "wake" -- a couple of friends of mine who appreciated him are going to go up with me on Saturday to my parents' house, where we'll bury him -- it will finally be over.

He was a splendid cat, and I have plenty of happy memories of him. I took care to appreciate him every day, especially once he fell ill, so I have no regrets that I didn't spend my time wisely.

Thanks again for the good wishes and the pleasant thoughts. I appreciate them very much.

irishaithne April 15 2009, 22:28:25 UTC

I am so, so sorry. *hugs*

Your love and care gave him a wonderful life and in the end, he knew you were doing the best you could. I think having a wake for him will help you grieve. Wallow, cry, and miss him terribly - you're allowed. We're here for you. *holds out tissues*

np_complete April 16 2009, 00:18:27 UTC

Thank you so much. I know from your comments that you've been through this, too. I appreciate the comforting words and good wishes.

I read in your journal that you have a new cat now: how is he doing?

irishaithne April 16 2009, 20:31:34 UTC

Yes, my cat I'd grown up with had to be put to sleep about 4 years ago. The difficult part for me was I had just moved to Boston for some grad school work and had to leave her with my mom, so I wasn't with her at the end. I can't imagine being the one who makes the decision.

I do have a new kitty. His name is Jude, and he's a tuxedo cat. We get on well, and he can be very cuddly and sweet. I'm having a bit of a tough spot because he's acting out in response to my being at work all day, which I kind of hysterically ranted about this morning, but we'll get past it. Thank you for asking about him.