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| Nin in 2007 |
No, he hasn't been to the vet and we don't have an official diagnosis, but I know my cat and I know the end is coming. While for the most part he is his annoying self (singing at all hours of the day, climbing all over you on the couch), there are signs the end is near. He is not eating as much. He is getting very skinny, and their are sometimes signs in the litter box things aren't right (and because I have seen him do it, I know it is him and not Baggy).
We have talked at length about what we want to do and we have decided that since he is clearly not suffering at this time we are doing nothing. That is right, we aren't even taking him to the vet at this time. [I do hear my vet rolling his eyes as I write this, but we have been friends for 20 years, so I know he will understand]. One of the main reasons we aren't going to the vet right now is that going is such a traumatic experience for Nin. I can't see putting him through all and all the tests to be told he is dying. I faced a similar choice when Loki was dying. They vet recommended another painful liver biopsy for him and I remember saying something like "Why? we know he is dying, what else will it tell us?" [In the end I agreed on another ultrasound which was far less invasive].
The moment Nin shows signs of distress, I will call the vet (who is on speed dial in this house) and take him there. We will do any treatment that will keep him comfortable but we will not do anything invasive. Nin has lived a good life and I want to treat him with the dignity I hope to be treated when I am in my 90s.
I don't know how much time we have left with him, so for now we will just love our crazy Nin!
We so understand having just faced the same with darling Pip. In our eyes you are absolutely right as there is nothing to be done at such a fine old age. Enjoy every moment you have left together and we know when the time is right you will do what ever needs to be done. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we type this with leaky eyes as we so know how bitter sweet those last days are.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes Molly
We're sending Nin lot's of love. To you, we send hugs and strength.
ReplyDeleteKeeping you all in our prayers.
Hugs,
Lily Belle & Muffin
We agree with you 100% - you know your cat best, you know how old he is and you know what a long and happy life he has had.....tests that are just going to tell you what you already know is as you said - just a stress he doesn't need. There is a time for all things and when that time starts to dwindle away - let it dwindle with respect, love dignity and no pain.
ReplyDeleteYou are his momma and you alone know what is in his heart. We understand EXACTLY what you are saying. I see the physical changes in our Dietzman also.
ReplyDeleteStella Rose and Momma
WE are with you 100% here. We think it is like Hospice Care... No need to put ANYONE through ANYTHING when it will not change the outcome. We KNOW you and we KNOW that you would not EVER allow there to be Discomfort... But for now... there is NO reason to subject Nin to any stress.
ReplyDeleteWe hate to see and hear this but KNOW that WE are hear to Support you.
For me you made the right decision. I wish you as much time as possible together. Enjoy every moment like a gift and please give Nin a hug from me.
ReplyDeleteIt's the hardest thing ever!
ReplyDeleteLily & Edward
purrs and kisses for as much quality time as possible. our old mancat is 19 and mom knows she doesn't have forever....but she does agree that putting them through "tests and things" just to prove a point seems mean.
ReplyDeleteOh, poor old guy! Sending him (and you) lots of love and strength. We are keeping him in our thoughts and prayers. ((((Hugs)))
ReplyDeleteHaving just been through this with a much younger cat, I can understand your point of view. Less is better with some cats and as long as they are not in pain or uncomfortable then you are wise just to love Nin as well as you can for as long as time allows. I am so sorry because I understand the hollowness of the words as I type them but will keep Nin in our evening prayers and you as well for the journey ahead.
ReplyDelete(((((hugs))))) Nin will let you know when it is time. I am so sorry. My Angel Bobo passed a day after his 18th birthday....you are blessed xoxo
ReplyDeleteWE all know our pets best and I truly agree. Anyone who owns a cat who clearly does not like the PTU knows the trauma that causes. Nin is a dignified senior and now quality of life is important...
ReplyDeleteGive him some extra lovin' from us
Madi and Mom
Sometimes Hospice is the best answer. Let life finish in a place that there is comfort and love. After all, there really is no place like home.
ReplyDeleteYour Pals,
Murphy & Stanley
Oh my... I think you have definitely made the right choice. If Nin is not suffering then he will let you know when it is time.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers are with you of course, and I applaud you for respecting Nin and not dragging the poor kitty off to the vet right away like that.
Sending you some warm fluffy husky hugz!
We're with you. If Nin NEEDS to go to the vet, he'll let you know....
ReplyDeleteXXXOOO Bella & Roxy
Oh Nin....you handsome panther boy....I think it's great that your humans are letting you live your last days just being you. You'll tell then if you need help - and they'll give you everything you need because they love you and have done so for many years. I can see in your eyes that the light is leaving.....I want you to know that Mom and I will be thinking about your journey.....and hoping it's painless and as happy as can be. I always sign my comments "Hugs" but this time it will be with "Special" hugs.....my friend Nin.
DeleteSpecial Hugs, Sammy
Hi hi hi! Ojo here! Nin, you have very respectful people! They sound kind and caring and wonderful, and I know you've been so lucky to have them all these years!
ReplyDeleteWhen our Cat Named Jericho walked the rainbow bridge a few months ago the people also let her be. It was how she wanted it. I know you are the same. Your people are doing the right thing, and giving you all their love!
Take care Cat Friend!!
You are doing what is right for your Nin. Nothing to think twice about. Take care of him as long as you can.
ReplyDeleteWe can only repeat what everyone else has said.
ReplyDeleteSending love and pug hugs to Nin and you
Mr Bailey, Hazel & Greta
We completely agree with your decision. Too bad there isn't a vet that makes house calls you can use.
ReplyDeleteWhile I know from experience this is a hard thing to do I completely agree with the choice you have made. As long as Nin is not suffering there is no reason to stress him with trips to the vet and needless tests. Your love is all he needs right now.
ReplyDeleteOh dear... one word "ditto" !
ReplyDeletexxx
We are with yous on this. When Hissy Old Licorice was near the end, wes did NOT take him to the vet either. It would has only stressed him more. We kept him comfortable and happy. And he was allowed to go on his own terms and in his/our bed.
ReplyDeleteWe sends yous strength for yous and Nin
Kisses
Nellie
Amen. I could not agree more. And I do understand about vet fear--Spitty is terrified and taking him there is such an ordeal. He's still middle-aged (9.5) so I will take him when I really need to, but when he gets to Nin's age (should he be so lucky as to live so long) and he's not suffering, I will do exactly what you are. Sending mega-purrs to all of you.
ReplyDeleteEek--we just left a message--did it disappear or maybe go to spam? Testing
ReplyDeleteOkay--now we feel silly and have left three messages! XOXOXO
ReplyDeleteWe definitely agree with you also...good call and Nin will let you know when it's time!
ReplyDeleteIt's always so hard to say good-bye to our furkids but we have to think of them, not ourselves.
ReplyDeleteSending a big hug!
ReplyDelete