Trust your instincts. You love your cat and she loves you. You won't let her suffer. If she's comfortable and happy, wait. You'll know when it's not fun for her any more, and then you won't hesitate to call for the vet.
You know about my German Shepherd. One evening I noticed that he was laboring to breathe. I thought, "I'll be damned if I'll let this dog suffer," and I called the vet for an appointment the next morning. The protective feelings that you have now, wanting her to live as long as possible, will, I promise you, compel you to let her go when you should.
I went through it with my last cat. Despite the disfiguring growths on her jaw (they were inoperable) she was still very much the happy cat she always was. So I bide my time waiting, but still cherishing her presence. She began to eat less and less, then drink less, yet her spirit was still high. Not that long after I noticed her giving me a "look" that is hard to describe. That, and coupled with her need/want to stay in my lap while giving me that unmistakable look and her weakening state let me know that it was that time. She did not fuss when I took her to the vet, and her eyes never left mine as she purred while enduring the shots. Then my little Harriette slipped away from me. It was the worst and best thing I ever did for her.
Your little Trudy will let you know, and she'll trust everything you do. It will rip your heart out, of course. No need to rush.
Like many have said before me, you will know. Trudy will tell you. As long as she is happy and enjoying your company, keep her around. When the time comes, hold her tight and let her know how much you love her. My heart goes out to you and your hubby.
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I fear a similar chapter coming with our Molly. I will be a giant mess.
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You know about my German Shepherd. One evening I noticed that he was laboring to breathe. I thought, "I'll be damned if I'll let this dog suffer," and I called the vet for an appointment the next morning. The protective feelings that you have now, wanting her to live as long as possible, will, I promise you, compel you to let her go when you should.
Big hugs, my friend.
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I went through it with my last cat. Despite the disfiguring growths on her jaw (they were inoperable) she was still very much the happy cat she always was. So I bide my time waiting, but still cherishing her presence. She began to eat less and less, then drink less, yet her spirit was still high. Not that long after I noticed her giving me a "look" that is hard to describe. That, and coupled with her need/want to stay in my lap while giving me that unmistakable look and her weakening state let me know that it was that time. She did not fuss when I took her to the vet, and her eyes never left mine as she purred while enduring the shots. Then my little Harriette slipped away from me. It was the worst and best thing I ever did for her.
Your little Trudy will let you know, and she'll trust everything you do. It will rip your heart out, of course. No need to rush.
*hugs* for the three of you.
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