How do you know when it's time?

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zerovector

zerovector

Member Since 2022
Previous thread for those who've followed his story
https://felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/longer-than-usual-constipation.268335

He has been declining since that thread. He's down to 5 1/2 lbs and can't jump onto his favorite chair anymore as of yesterday. He will just pee wherever he is, and has no problem pooping anywhere he wants either.

While he's still quite interested in food, I can't help but wonder if he's experiencing pain or discomfort. He's so little and frail now, and has trouble with balance. I am struggling with making the call because, how can a hungry cat be ready to die? I don't want to feel like i'm signing a death warrant, but I also don't want to have to do this under the duress of an emergency. I lost two cats last year, now losing him is too much.
 
https://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/making-the-decision-help-to-know-when-and-how.131915/

There are some resources there ^

I personally don't rely on hunger as the sole factor; not eating is very last stages typically.

Instead try to step back and look at him as a whole - is he content? Sure he may be peeing and pooping everywhere which is rough on you, but does he mind? As long as he's not stuck in it all day/it poses a health issue, that doesn't bother me personally. Is he still social? Or is he starting to withdraw? Is he interested in anything besides food?

I think the resources above ask a lot of questions like that. It's definitely a tough position to be in when you don't have "clear signs". I tend to re-evaluate weekly, because sometimes it's hard to see just how much they've changed in a short period of time when youre with them 24/7.
 
man, my heart breaks for you. I dread having to make a similar decision someday. I'm glad Melissa was able to provide you a resource, I am at a loss for words.
 
Hendrick Cuddleclaw said:
man, my heart breaks for you. I dread having to make a similar decision someday. I'm glad Melissa was able to provide you a resource, I am at a loss for words.
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It's been very hard. He went downhill fast this week. He just doesn't even seem like he's here. I have set up a home euthanasia appointment for tomorrow. This is the 3rd cat I will be losing in the space of a year.
 
18 is a good long life for a kitty, and you have given him everything any cat could ask for in a caregiver. A good long life with lots of love and attention. If it is indeed time for him to move on, you should know in your heart that he was given every chance at staying longer imaginable. I am very honored to have been privy to his story and yours. You're a good person and any cat would be lucky to own you.
 
zerovector said:
He went downhill fast this week. He just doesn't even seem like he's here.
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That says a lot, sadly. Combined with the peeing/pooping wherever he is at the moment, those are likely signs that he’s ready (perhaps even in the process) of leaving.

Hard as it is on your heart, it sounds like you were wise to schedule the appointment. You’ve fought hard to get answers and find solutions, but sometimes the body just gets old. It’s a gift to be able to help them pass on calmly and in a quiet, peaceful, and loving environment. He’s trusting you to help him this one final time.

I’m so very, very sorry. I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow. :bighug:
 
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Everyone, Black finally crossed the rainbow bridge today.

thank you for all of your words and kindness.
 
thank you. i found a bunch of pictures of him when he was younger and healthy for you all to see.
 

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I am so very sorry to hear that Black is no longer with you. It sounds like you made completely the right decision. He was lucky to have you as an advocate
 
Hi. I am just seeing this and I am so so sorry about Black. You loved him very much. And to lose three in a year is such a series of blows. I am sad about this. I'm very proud of how you fought for him though. Take care.
 
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