Need help with big decision

[morvelaira]

So, most of you know, or have guessed by now, that I adore black kitties. This is because of my sweetheart of a cat, Puddin' Head. This cat (along with a pack of other strays) adopted my family nearly 15 years ago. We kept him in particular because of his sweet disposition, and because he was leaps and bounds ahead of the others in mental prowess. This cat slept in my bed with me for a decade - the sum total of my teenage years and beyond, and I swear for many of those years and I swear he thought he was my boyfriend.

And now the vet has called to tell me that he is in the late stages of kidney failure.

I mean, I'm not surprised. 15 years is a long time for a cat to grace this earth, and who knows how old he was when he adopted us? I'm just left with what feels like the agonizing decision between making him as comfortable as possible, or just ending things and letting him rest now. Either choice is just making me cry and I don't know what to do.

[FlowerChild]

:(

A tough decision to be sure, but one I think that has to come down to whether the animal is suffering or still enjoying life.

I think that when the time comes, helping a pet move along is one of the greatest acts of love and signs of moral courage that we can exercise.

Anyways, hugs to you Morv. I know it can't be easy.

[Ulfengaard]

My best advice (and I speak from a great deal of experience) is to prepare and watch him. He will know when it's time. Animals always do. And, if he seems that way already, then it's time to let him do what he needs to do. The best kitties know what's right for everyone involved, including their owners, and they'll try to remove themselves quietly from your presence. Quiet corners, and so forth.

It's a tough time, so don't begrudge the tears. Do, though, try to reflect on the good stuff, and you have my condolences.

[Mr_Hosed]

I had a cat that lived to 24. Was actually a year older then me (literally knew it all my life). Anyways, as other's have said, it was pretty obvious keeping her around was nothing more then prolonging the pain after a while. Just don't be in the room when they do the deed.

[Panda]

I think you should do like FC said. Thats all i can really say, Hopefully i can offer this for you:
http://pusheen.com

Visit it, and smile.
We all love you very dearly, please stay strong, like SFSteel.
Panda

[RaustBlackDragon]

I'm so sad to hear this.

I agree with FC, if your cat is suffering, ending that suffering is the right thing to do. But if your cat is still enjoying life, just be there for him to the end.

[Gargantuan_Penguin]

Aww :(

my family had a cat that lived to be 18 years old. And he was an outdoor cat. And he lived through a lot. from getting caught in a snare and steel jaw trap at the same time to being run over and crushed by a garage door. eventually he went to sleep under or deck and never woke up. The only cat I ever shed a tear (actually I bawled my eyes out) for.

And I agree that if he is in pain the best and hardest thing to do is to end it. But if not then enjoy every minute of it.

[PureZaros]

If your cat is in pain, I would recommend having him put to sleep. It's a lot easier (relative term) for all involved.

However, if you decide to let him die on his own, don't be holding him when he starts seizing up. The psychological trauma is pretty bad. Well... It was for me when my cat died... :(

Off-topic: Panda, how the hell do you always have the right thingto make me feel better when I start getting depressed? It's like you're having premonitions!

[Ribky]

Morv... I actually teared up reading this... because I'm a big pansy. My condolences. It is a tough decision to make, however; I'm sure he'll let you know what to do in his own way.

[morvelaira]

Between you guys and consulting with family and the vet a bit...

I've come to the decision that I'm going to make him as comfortable as possible until he's ready. He's certainly been more of a crotchety old man the last few weeks, but for all the calm disposition he's always had, he looks ready to piss in death's eye. If the kidneys would let him piss, of course. >.>

Ironically, he's figured out how upset I am (even if he doesn't know exactly why) and has gone into his usual routine to try and cheer me up. And this is why he's been my cat for so long.

[Poppycocks]

Between you guys and consulting with family and the vet a bit...

I've come to the decision that I'm going to make him as comfortable as possible until he's ready. He's certainly been more of a crotchety old man the last few weeks, but for all the calm disposition he's always had, he looks ready to piss in death's eye. If the kidneys would let him piss, of course. >.>

Ironically, he's figured out how upset I am (even if he doesn't know exactly why) and has gone into his usual routine to try and cheer me up. And this is why he's been my cat for so long.

Awwwww :(.

I'm really sorry for you and your kitten.

[RaustBlackDragon]

Between you guys and consulting with family and the vet a bit...

I've come to the decision that I'm going to make him as comfortable as possible until he's ready. He's certainly been more of a crotchety old man the last few weeks, but for all the calm disposition he's always had, he looks ready to piss in death's eye. If the kidneys would let him piss, of course. >.>

Ironically, he's figured out how upset I am (even if he doesn't know exactly why) and has gone into his usual routine to try and cheer me up. And this is why he's been my cat for so long.

That sounds like you have a truly wonderful cat...

[TheAnarchitect]

OH sweetie. *Hugs*

Enjoy these last days with your cat. Take time off work if you can.

[Panda]

You know maybe my cat thought he was my boyfriend to.... he used to get in-between me and my girlfriend and lick my cheek all night. :3

[orangeweaver]

I agree with FC on this one, I had a dog for around 12 years growing up, an English Masstiff and the thing was nearly 200 pounds and dogs that large usually don't live that long. He had an enlarged heart toward the end and it was giving him problems, the medication to alleviate those problems made his bones weaker and intensified his hip problems. It got to the point that he couldn't stand and walk on his own with out falling after more than a few feet, you could tell that it was agonizing for him both physically and emotionally because he couldn't get from one place to another and be around the family.

I think if your cat is still in a position where he can enjoy life and is able to move itself around and be apart of everything, you could try with medication. If not I think that it is more loving to help it pass and will be less strain on your emotions to be watching it struggle day-in, day-out.

[rhacer]

I'm so sorry Laira. These things are never easy.

[Pentagram]

I'd like to link you here; it's a lovely poem about Pet Loss which I send to everyone who is losing or has lost a pet.
http://petloss.com/rainbowbridge.htm

[morvelaira]

Before I forget -

The decision has been made, and I don't want this thread popping up again to remind me at some point in the future under the dark necromatic arts. Thank you all for your support, and your advice. Requesting a lock.