Community Chat

[Bird]

We have cared for feral and abandoned cats for years. This one particular cat was our favorite. We've had him 14 years and he was an adult when he showed up at our home.

All of a sudden his hind end seems to be paralyzed. He cannot walk, only drags himself around. He is still talkative, affectionate, washes himself, is able to eat and drink with our help. He is not in pain and is happy to be with us.

I checked with a vet about the price of euthanizing him. Of course I don't want to do this, but if it is the right thing to do for him I will. With a lot of weeping to be sure. So, by law they have to "see" him first which means charge for a visit, then the injection. $95.

I could drop him off at the pound, but we would not want his last moments on this earth alone and in fear. This cat likes to "hold my hand," especially now that he cannot move, and I should be there for him in the end. DH offered to shoot him. Really, a very kind act since they both are bosom buddies and I know DH would hurt.

OK, I know the right thing to do is the vet, $95. On the one hand the money is not the issue, but I do not like "laws" like this that favor the industry that lobbied for that law. But that seems to be the kindest way for this wonderful cat. Also the money issue is that we have avoided vet bills in general so we could care for more homeless animals. The vets in our area are like vultures. We took this cat years ago and she wanted to do this and that, $1900, when all the cat needed was some parasite treatment (which I managed to get elsewhere.)

Well I need a few words of encouragement if you all can offer some. Thanks - Bird