So I need to make the hard decision

My buddy of 16 years has been fighting feline myelitis for the past 10 months. He's been on Prednisone every day of those ten months. He has gone from 12 lbs to 6lbs 11ozs. He has no muscle mass left. Exhibiting signs of dehydration.
He still tries to run and jump but his back legs give out a lot. He eats really well and uses his litterbox with no problems. He is hiding more in the back of the closet and will sleep in the same position for HOURS.

Today, the vet said it's time to start thinking about letting him go. Since cats tend to be stoic, it's hard to tell if he is in pain. We are going to get blood test results on Monday--they are looking for elevated levels to give me some idea of how far his disease has progressed.

I'm just having a hard time making that final decision. I worry we've caused him pain and I'm worried that I'm ending it too soon.

Ugh.

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

I'm very sorry to hear that. Sixteen years is a great run, more than any pet I've ever known, and it's obvious you have his best interests at heart.

Since it's hard to tell if he is in pain, I guess one consideration should be - how much joy does he have in his life now? Does he seem happy at all daily? I'm assuming since he sleeps so much, that might be a no.

I think it's great that you're putting his considerations first, and I wish you strength when you do have to make the decision.

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

Its such a hard decision. I feel for you. Its awful.

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I can not offer advice but just a lot of and

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

I'm so sorry you are faced with such a difficult decision. I will be thinking of you both.

Message edited 8/28/2010 11:59:17 PM.

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

I cant imagine being in your situation.. I know my day will come as well..

The only thing I can think of is the fact that he is on Prednisone.. It masks all pain and symptoms.. I am assuming thats is the only reason he is eating as well.. that drug increases appetite.. So if he goes off the drugs you would probably be in a different situation.. So I guess the only thing you can do is either keep him on them or put him to rest.. If you take him off them and let him live I think that would be cruel (I am not even assuming you would do that).. I guess If you trust your Vet you may have to consider his advice.. I wouldnot want to be in your shoes right now.. I am truly sorry.

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

I am so sorry. I was in your situation not too long ago. We lost our cat at 17. I can tell you that even those she was sick for a while, I didn't want to do anything because she still seemed like herself. I definitely knew when the time had come. She stopped eating, stopped purring and didn't want to be near anyone. I knew at that point she was in pain and I needed to help her. It was such a hard decision but it needed to be done. Many for you little guy.

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

I just wanted to send some

I am a cat person myself (as though it wasn't obvious from my username!) so I especially feel for your situation

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Re: So I need to make the hard decision

Thanks everyone.
The blood work came back and the vet said all the levels were "superb". Now I'm really confused. He was so chipper last night we couldn't believe it.

I guess I'll just watch the symptoms and if it starts to look bad we'll let him go.

Poor little guy is so skinny!

Re: So I need to make the hard decision

Just wanted to add that my girl lost a TON of weight too. You could feel all the bones in her spine. Just keep an eye on his quality of life....eating, playing, normal behavior. He will let you know when it's time.