Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thanks, Tonya. I am glad, too, that I was holding him. I think for his last few hours he was only semi-conscious but I hope he could feel my arms and hear my voice.catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Susan, I'm so sorry you lost Big Rik. I'm glad he went at home in your arms though. tonyaSusan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thank you, Terri. He will always have a very special place iin my heart.Terri Brown [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: How horrible. Big hugs to you. Goodnight, Big Rik... =^..^= Terri, Salome', Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth and Alec =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 10:36 AM Subject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry.GloriaOn Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club". Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) Paws Come WITH Claws!!! If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has di ed
Title: Message Susan, I am so sorry about Big Rik.He seemed to be a special guy.I know that henow is in a special place and in your heart. Joan -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Thursday, September 01, 2005 10:34 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Terri. He will always have a very special place iin my heart.Terri Brown [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: How horrible. Big hugs to you. Goodnight, Big Rik... =^..^= Terri, Salome', Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth and Alec =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 10:36 AM Subject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry.GloriaOn Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club". Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its a
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has di ed
Thanks, Joan - and now, a day later, I can focus more on his gain - free of an old body that was just worn out - than on my loss."Doljan, Joan" [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Susan, I am so sorry about Big Rik.He seemed to be a special guy.I know that henow is in a special place and in your heart. Joan -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Thursday, September 01, 2005 10:34 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Terri. He will always have a very special place iin my heart.Terri Brown [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: How horrible. Big hugs to you. Goodnight, Big Rik... =^..^= Terri, Salome', Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth and Alec =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 10:36 AM Subject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry.GloriaOn Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club". Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) Paws Come WITH Claws!!! If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
I am so sorry. It sounds like he had a final rally his last day. That happens a lot. It is wonderful for him that he felt so good in his last day. Michelle
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet.__Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Title: Message Dear Susan While I haven't had a chance to post myself, I've been following your posts as much as possible and amso sorry to hear you lost your beloved Big Rik. At least, unlike so many of our kitties, he did have a full and long life as well as being a much-loved little fella. I know how much you're going to miss your sweet guy and hope all the good memories of him bring you comfort in the weeks to come. take care, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 8:22 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the! way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP has moved its Chicago office to Hyatt Center, 71 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606. Email addresses, telephone numbers, and facsimile numbers remain unchanged. For more information, click the link below or copy / paste the link into the address bar of your Web browser: http://www.mayerbrownrowe.com/chicago/move.asp Please Note: Some administrative functions will be located at 230 S. LaSalle, Chicago IL, 60604. IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpaye
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry. Gloria On Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the old folks club. Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated. Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) Paws Come WITH Claws!!! If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Susan, What a glorious life he had and you were privileged to share part of it with him. Our thoughts and tears are with you HUGSSusan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Barb+Smoky the House Puma+El Bandito Malito"My cat the clown: paying no mind to whom he should impress. Merely living his life, doing what pleases him, and making me smile."- Anonymous Yahoo! Mail for Mobile Take Yahoo! Mail with you! Check email on your mobile phone.
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thanks, Gloria - I started to call you when I got to work this morning and then decided it was too early. He really went downhill fast. But we know there are worse things than going fast.[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry.GloriaOn Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club". Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) Paws Come WITH Claws!!! If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thank you Kerry. And he did have such a long life - I feel almost ashamed of being upset over losing a kitty who nearly reached 20years. All of us who have feleuk babies would kill for a lifespan of even half that for them, I know. Mylittle Butternut who died last week at 3 1/2 - long for a feleuk pos kitten but wow, to have had 19 1/2 years with him, or my other feleuk babies - Daisy, Leader, Valley, Misty Morning, Jingles, and little Carla - who is over 2 years old but is the size of an 8 week old kitten and going down hill. I feel like I should apoligize to them for feeling sad about Rik. "MacKenzie, Kerry N." [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan While I haven't had a chance to post myself, I've been following your posts as much as possible and amso sorry to hear you lost your beloved Big Rik. At least, unlike so many of our kitties, he did have a full and long life as well as being a much-loved little fella. I know how much you're going to miss your sweet guy and hope all the good memories of him bring you comfort in the weeks to come. take care, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 8:22 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the! way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP has moved its Chicago office to Hyatt Center, 71 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606. Email addresses, telephone numbers, and facsimile numbers remain unchanged. For more information, click the link below or copy / paste the link into the address bar of your Web browser: http://www.mayerbrownrowe.com/chicago/move.asp Please Note: Some administrative fun
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Dear Susan, How very sorry I am for your loss; what a deep and special bond you andBig Rik must have developed over 19.5 years. What an extraordinary life! Still, it's never enough time when it's time for them to leave us, is it? I know what you mean about that bite; I have scratches down my inner arm from Tater Tot during his seizures on the way to the ER and I think they will scar and I hope they do. I will think of him everyday and when I look at those scars I will not think of the end of his life, but what a joyful boy he was when he was here. You must have so many wonderful memories of Big Rik toprocess. I can easily imagine all our old 'grumpies' on the special super-duper-soft cloud. A big hug from me and extra-strength headbutts from Tommy and Sunny; we'll light a candle for Big Rik tonight. Take care. Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet.__Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thanks, Julie. I can just picture Big Rik resting on that soft cloud - telling everyone what he thinks in that growly, yowly voice of his!Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, How very sorry I am for your loss; what a deep and special bond you andBig Rik must have developed over 19.5 years. What an extraordinary life! Still, it's never enough time when it's time for them to leave us, is it? I know what you mean about that bite; I have scratches down my inner arm from Tater Tot during his seizures on the way to the ER and I think they will scar and I hope they do. I will think of him everyday and when I look at those scars I will not think of the end of his life, but what a joyful boy he was when he was here. You must have so many wonderful memories of Big Rik toprocess. I can easily imagine all our old 'grumpies' on the special super-duper-soft cloud. A big hug from me and extra-strength headbutts from Tommy and Sunny; we'll light a candle for Big Rik tonight. Take care. Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it isto protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)Paws Come WITH Claws!!!If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Title: Message Dear Susan--I hear what you're saying, and I'm pretty sure I'd be feeling similar "guilt" if it were me---BUT how wrong I would be! Big Rik's long, full life is truly something to be celebrated, with NO apology necessary---to anyone! Also--and I can only speak for myself here--I feel that the longer you have them the more painfulin many ways the lossis, and the harder it is to accept that they've gone. It's truly wonderful thatBig Riklived to such a ripe old age, andunquestionable thatthe sweet little furball is going to leave behind him a huge gap.until all the good memories come flooding back as, of course, they surely andeventually, will. love hugs to you and Big Rik, in his peaceful resting-place, and to all your furballs, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 9:54 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you Kerry. And he did have such a long life - I feel almost ashamed of being upset over losing a kitty who nearly reached 20years. All of us who have feleuk babies would kill for a lifespan of even half that for them, I know. Mylittle Butternut who died last week at 3 1/2 - long for a feleuk pos kitten but wow, to have had 19 1/2 years with him, or my other feleuk babies - Daisy, Leader, Valley, Misty Morning, Jingles, and little Carla - who is over 2 years old but is the size of an 8 week old kitten and going down hill. I feel like I should apoligize to them for feeling sad about Rik. "MacKenzie, Kerry N." [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan While I haven't had a chance to post myself, I've been following your posts as much as possible and amso sorry to hear you lost your beloved Big Rik. At least, unlike so many of our kitties, he did have a full and long life as well as being a much-loved little fella. I know how much you're going to miss your sweet guy and hope all the good memories of him bring you comfort in the weeks to come. take care, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 8:22 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the! ! way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Thanks, Kerry. What you say makes me feel better - I have been surprised at the amount of "guilt" I've felt - especially looking at little feleuk+Carla who is undoubtedly going to be the next to go - so very early in her life."MacKenzie, Kerry N." [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan--I hear what you're saying, and I'm pretty sure I'd be feeling similar "guilt" if it were me---BUT how wrong I would be! Big Rik's long, full life is truly something to be celebrated, with NO apology necessary---to anyone! Also--and I can only speak for myself here--I feel that the longer you have them the more painfulin many ways the lossis, and the harder it is to accept that they've gone. It's truly wonderful thatBig Riklived to such a ripe old age, andunquestionable thatthe sweet little furball is going to leave behind him a huge gap.until all the good memories come flooding back as, of course, they surely andeventually, will. love hugs to you and Big Rik, in his peaceful resting-place, and to all your furballs, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 9:54 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you Kerry. And he did have such a long life - I feel almost ashamed of being upset over losing a kitty who nearly reached 20years. All of us who have feleuk babies would kill for a lifespan of even half that for them, I know. Mylittle Butternut who died last week at 3 1/2 - long for a feleuk pos kitten but wow, to have had 19 1/2 years with him, or my other feleuk babies - Daisy, Leader, Valley, Misty Morning, Jingles, and little Carla - who is over 2 years old but is the size of an 8 week old kitten and going down hill. I feel like I should apoligize to them for feeling sad about Rik. "MacKenzie, Kerry N." [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan While I haven't had a chance to post myself, I've been following your posts as much as possible and amso sorry to hear you lost your beloved Big Rik. At least, unlike so many of our kitties, he did have a full and long life as well as being a much-loved little fella. I know how much you're going to miss your sweet guy and hope all the good memories of him bring you comfort in the weeks to come. take care, Kerry -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 8:22 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions tobe lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the! ! way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club".Basedon the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information.Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
Dear Susan, I am so sorry for your loss. I know just how you feel, we all do. It is not any easier losing an old guy just because they have had a long life. I think it is much harder because we have had them with us for so long that they become a part of us. I have 20 cats and 15 of them are 13 yrs and older. I have been so lucky having them with me for so long as most are felv+ and should have pass yrs ago according to the vets. Right now I have and old guy Bubba 16 who is so sick and dying of kidney failure. He wants to live so bad he just want give up. It's so hard watching him. The only good thing I can say is be grateful Big Rik went so quickly. You'll be in my prayers. Sheila
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died
How horrible. Big hugs to you. Goodnight, Big Rik... =^..^= Terri, Salome', Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth and Alec =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 2005 10:36 AM Subject: Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list - Big Rik has died SUSAN - Oh my - I'm so sorry. I'm shocked. I just didn't think about Big Rik going so soon. I just can't imagine him gone. Such a sweet, wonderful guy. I know he's going to still hang around your house with you, where he's been for so long. I'm sorry.GloriaOn Aug 31, 2005, at 8:21 AM, Susan Loesch wrote: Thank you, Julie. Aren't our old guys wonderful. I am so sad to have to say that Big Rik died in my arms around 2am this morning. I had followed up on the suggestion of potassium - talked to my vet and added it to his SQ fluids. Late yesterday afternoon he seemed to rally a bit but it didn't last long. He has had this voracious appetite - scarfed down almost a whole can of cat food when he seemed to feel a little better yesterday.. I think that in itself is a sign of something wrong - he was like that for about a week.(I know that hunger/eating is one of the last functions to be lost - that a cat will eat up almost to the point of death so I knew it wasn't really a positive thing. He may have had some thyroid problems to develop or diabetes. Had I not known his kidneys were so bad and if he hadn't been in such poor condition I'd have had blood work done.) In fact I didn't get my hand out of the way fast enough one day and he chowed down hard on my thumb. I look at the thumb now and wish I had another opportunity for him to bite me. Give your Tommy and Sunny hugs from me. I hope they are around for many, many years but when their time comes I know Big Rik will be there waitiing for them - they can have the "old folks club". Based on the amount of SQ fluids he absorbed very quickly over the last couple of days I think his kidneys just quit. I will definitely look into the glucosamine/condroitin treats - I have other older kitties - but at 13-15 they are just kids compared to Big Rik. Thanks for that information. Julie Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear Susan, Sending huge amounts of love and good wishes to Big Rik! I adore the grumpy old men! My Tommy is an old-timer, too, (not even sure how old), but he's also a bit weak in the hindquarters. My vet Wendy said it's from losing a bit of muscle mass due to the combination of age and arthritis. I have some kitty glucosamine/ condroitin but he doesn't like the taste mixed in his food and he really objects to being pilled. This company does have a treat formula that I bought for Sunny last year (she's about 105 years old!) and she wasn't crazy about it, but Tommy likes treats so I think I'll try it again for him. http://www.zukes.com/cats/ Give Big Rik a big hug and Tommy and Sunny understand completely 'what a drag it is getting old...' Love, Julie Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks "I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. " "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) Paws Come WITH Claws!!! If you're thinking about de-clawing your cat, you need to re-think your decision to acquire a pet. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Title: Message Susan, Healing vibes from all my guys to Big Rik. Joan -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Monday, August 29, 2005 11:29 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
RE: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Thanks, Joan. I am not ready to lose him!"Doljan, Joan" [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Susan, Healing vibes from all my guys to Big Rik. Joan -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan LoeschSent: Monday, August 29, 2005 11:29 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Big hugs to you and Big Rik (love his name)! You guys are in my thoughts! Jen But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed... --Antoine de Saint-Exupéry If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know each other. If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys. --Chief Dan George - Original Message - From: Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Monday, August 29, 2005 10:29 am Subject: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Thanks! I'll pass that hug on to Big Rik this evening![EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Big hugs to you and Big Rik (love his name)! You guys are in my thoughts!Jen"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will beunique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; Youbecome responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine deSaint-Exupéry"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will knoweach other. If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and whatyou do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief DanGeorge- Original Message -From: Susan Loesch <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>Date: Monday, August 29, 2005 10:29 amSubject: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
I will definitely do that! It gives me hope that maybe he can stabilize and make it to 20! thanks.Belinda Sauro [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Susan,Have his pottasium checked, kitties that are in early stages of kidney failure can get backend weakness because of not enough pottasium. The fact that Big Rik is only just now having dehyrdation issues has to be in his favor, he must have one very healthy immune system!!-- BelindaHappiness is being owned by cats ...Be-Mi-Kitties ...http://www.bemikitties.comPost Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittenshttp://adopt.bemikitties.comFeLV Candle Light Servicehttp://www.bemikitties.com/clsHostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design)http://HostDesign4U.com---BMK Designs (non-profit web sites)http://bmk.bemikitties.com
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Positive vibes coming your way! =^..^= Terri, Salome', Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth and Alec =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: Susan Loesch To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, August 29, 2005 11:29 AM Subject: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanks
Re: Please add Big Rik to the special needs list
Prayers coming from me as well! What a 'wise old cat' he must be! tSusan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks! He really has had an awesome life - and I only adopted him when he was 15. He'd had one owner from the time he was a kitten - adopted from Ft. Worth, TX shelter. Walked into my house, looked around and just decided he was home. No adjustment problems!Barb Moermond [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: What a fabulous life span! Sending GLOW to keep him happy, well grumpy:) and to keep your time together good.Susan Loesch [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Please add my 19 1/2 year old Big Rik to the special needs list. He has been your typical grumpy old man for the last few years, but incredibly healthy. He has just begun to stay dehydrated enough to need subQ fluids and I noticed yesterday that his hind quarters are getting week and unsteady. He's a really fine old fella, felv negative. thanksBarb+Smoky the House Puma+El Bandito Malito"My cat the clown: paying no mind to whom he should impress. Merely living his life, doing what pleases him, and making me smile." - Anonymous __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
