Put my 19 year old cat to sleep today

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J

JenJee

Member Since 2012
Ivan the Terrible was my kitty or five years after I adopted him from the shelter I volunteered at. He was trapped in a TNR program and too old to be released. We had a very special bond because he was semi-feral and it took him a long time to trust me, a good 6 months to come out from under the bed during the day.

It was a really peaceful passing and so far my sugarcat, Saul, has not seemed any different. After all, Saul had only been here two weeks. I feel much guilt that I was spending so much time doting on Saul and his condition and wonder if Ivan felt ignored. Wonder if Ivan decided to let go. He had a rare seizure a few days a go and never really recovered so we decided it was time.

Saul and the dogs are a great comfort right now but I miss my Ivan. I wonder if Ivan would still be here if he hadn't been stressed about Saul but I think it was just a matter of time.

In any case, I am glad I have Saul to ease the pain and though no one will ever replace Ivan I know Saul's condition will at least help take my mind off of things and I can focus my attention on Saul and keeping him regulated.
 
Ivan was blessed, as were you, when you first met. You were able to give him 5 years that he probably would not have had if you two had not met the way you did. I'm a big believer that everything in life happens for a reason. None of our dear pets can ever truly be replaced, but I am glad that you have Saul and your dogs to ease your pain.
19 years is a good life, and his was made better by you. Take peace and comfort in that.
Fly free Ivan and visit your mom in her dreams to let her know that you are in a good place now.

Hugs,
Carl
 
I'm so sorry to hear your news. I had to put my 21 year old kitty to sleep in February and I still have to stop myself from reaching out to pet him only to then remember he's gone!. I know it was his time and I have two other kitties (and much less kitty politics in my house) but I guess the long habits of two decades will take awhile to adjust.

Be kind to yourself!

b*
 
I am so sorry for your loss. Fly free Ivan rb_icon

Do not be hard on yourself. You gave him five wonderful years and a second chance.

I had to smile at you saying it took a "good six months" before he came out from under the bed because I always say that Beau lived under my dining room table for six months. I call him my recovering feral. Taking the time and patience to socialize a feral is a very special undertaking that not everyone can do (FDMB members aside).

(((hugs)))
 
My heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your beloved Ivan wings_cat IMHO there is nothing like a feral that slowly comes around and learns to love and trust you. Maybe Ivan knew that you now had Saul so it was okay to let go. Bless you for giving beautiful Saul a home, medical attention and love.
 
I am so sorry to hear that your kitty needs to pass on to the bridge. Ivan was so lucky to have you and a mom. Bless you.

Pattie
 
19 years is a long life and you know at least 5 of them were good. You did your best and I'm sure Ivam knows this. My heart goes out to you at this difficult time.
Fly free Ivan may your journey be safe and you land ever so softly...
jeanne
 
Thanks, everyone, for your kind words. It was a rough night last night but Saul came to sleep with me part of the night so that was nice, and the dogs of course were with me the whole night. (It is a very crowded bed most of the time!)

Ivan had a good last five years and I think it was the right thing to do. He was my first kitty and so challenging at times even having a diabetic cat doesn't seem that bad, though we've been very lucky that Saul's numbers reversed with diet change and hope that keeps up.
 
deepest sympathies on your loss. it is never easy but he did have 5 good years of love. that is a lot for an old guy. you were a good momma bean to him and I am sure he knew that.
hugs
 
so sorry to hear that he had to make the journey. I have to say he lived a pretty full life, and I'll be the last 5 were the best! :YMHUG:
 
Sorry for your loss, but you should feel good, knowing that you helped him live out his life in a home filled with love. Peace to you and yours!
 
You did a good thing, taking him in and giving him care and love. It was his time to go and I'm sure he knew you did your best. It's tough, but in time I hope on smiling memories remain.
 
What a wonderful kitty mommy you are. You gave Ivan the love and safety all furs should know. I'm so sorry for your loss. But know that you gave as precious a gift to Ivan as he gave you.
Shai
 
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