Sunday, January 15, 2006

THE OTHER BOOT

This is Lord Greystoke who left me this morning at 8.30. He's spent the last 3 months sitting on his feather cushion by my computer desk, only wandering out to eat or use the kitty litter.
He'd only go outside if I carried him and walked around the garden with him. He was a grand old Victorian gentleman of a cat who used to sneak in our back door when it was cold and sleep in a corner, making off when he heard us get up. I finally caught and caged him in 1991 and after being de-sexed and vaccinated, he lost that thick- necked tomcat look, becoming refined and luxury loving. The vet estimated his age then at about 3 years so he's had a long and happy life. I thought his teeth, never the best, were the problem but my vet found a huge tumour in his mouth that was closing over his throat so the kindest decision was made. I've done this many times before and I always hold them til they go, that way they're never frightened.
Because I trust my vet completely I gave her permission to do a dissection of the tumour. This adds to her knowledge and may save another animal. She took him away wrapped in his pink blanket. It will take a week or two to stop putting down two bowls and I'll still automatically step over him when I turn off the computer.

9 comments:

Kelly & Sam Pilgrim-Byrne said...

We're sorry, JT. We've had to make this decision many times as well and it just never gets any easier.

JahTeh said...

It's leading up to the decision that's the problem. Once it's made I can handle it.

Fluffy said...

RIP Lord Greystoke. I hope you've found a cushion in a warm corner of kitty heaven.

Unknown said...

Oh ... Jt .... sorry you had to go throught that.

My cat, Elsa, was 23 when I had to do the same thing.

I am glad cats can't talk or write because, as my best friend for all that time, she knew all my secrets.

Anonymous said...

Sorry to hear about your cat, JT.

Anonymous said...

Oh I'm sorry JT. Please tell me it's worth it though, all those parts that lead up to that part leading up the decision (and recursively from there on).

JahTeh said...

I've still got one left. He collects tennis balls, hates kids and dogs and speaks human. "GET FOOD NOW!"is quite clear. No wonder I don't miss the ex.

Turtleheart said...

Sorry to read about Lord Greystoke. Sounds like he had a fulfilling life with you up to the very end.

Someday I'll have to make the same decision for my Claire; but for now I cherish every moment with her.

Gay Curmudgeon said...

This weekend Jasper and Tigger cavorted, yowled and napped in his honour.

Roast chicken treats where also offered in honour of the passed Lord.

~GC