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January 5, 2005
My poor cat, part 2
This morning I brought my cat, Joplin, for his follow-up visit to Academy Animal Hospital to see if there's any more to do for him, after a week's treatment with Prednisone. Although his walking seems to have improved slightly, he's still got the same problems with bladder control, and on top of it, he's developed diarrhea that he can't seem to control either.
The doctor walked into the room and said, that he was sorry, there's nothing that can be done. Even if I had the money to throw at the problem, he doubts that even then it could be helped. It's either a congenital neurological disorder or there was some spinal cord damage at some point. Bringing him in earlier would probably not have made a difference. Considering that it's now a quality of life issue, the best thing I could do is have him euthanized.
So what do I do now, call up the Humane Society and tell them I need to have my cat put to sleep? How do I make this decision? Does he seem miserable? I can't let him in the house anymore, because I fear more stains from his urine and fecal matter. But he seems to be happy outside. He doesn’t seem too miserable.
How do I schedule an appointment to take my cat away from me? This is breaking my heart!
Posted by Bastique at January 5, 2005 7:12 PM
Comments
Sob! Sorry Cary, Not to add to your burden, but is he safe outside? Is he able to defend himself for example if attacked by another cat, racoon, etc? Is this a fairly protected yard? Sorry for the questions, you've probably thought this thru some, but thought I should ask them.
If the time comes where you have to have him euthanized, is there someone nearby who is relatively detached that can carry the cat in for you? You know, someone who can actually handle the matter at hand.
This would allow you to say your goodbyes, and not have to have closure at the humane society (or wherever you would take it in Ft. Laud). When I had to Euthanize my persian a few years ago, a friend took him in because I could not bear to do it.
Hope that helps some,
Aaron.
Posted by: Aaron at January 6, 2005 1:14 AM