Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Hi Lorrie, This response is very late I know. My vets won't come to my home to euthanize, but if you look in the phone book you can possibly find a 'mobile vet' who will. I'm sorry you are going through this. It is so hard. tonya --- On Tue, 8/11/09, Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com wrote: From: Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009, 4:02 PM Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Yes, my vet gives me the ace whenever it's that time... Before, I have had a few who would really perk up on the way to the vet's office, as if to say, I'm not sick, look at me! I can run circles around you! And THAT makes it really hard! My cat Benjamin (FeLeuk+) had been going slowly downhill for a couple of years (we think he was about 17 at the end)- and it had gotten to the point where he couldn't make it to the litter box anymore and was very weak. So we cried and drove down to the vet's office, and he started acting like a kitten again. We turned around and brought him back home, where he scampered all over the house, played with toys, had an appetite again, etc. Several days later, though, he was back where he started, and we took him to the vet's again. Again he perked up in the car, but we knew it was time. :-( That was really hard. -Original Message- From: Lorrie [mailto:felineres...@kvinet.com] Sent: Thursday, August 13, 2009 5:53 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Yes, watching them struggle or gasp for breath is just unbearable. I've used Klonopin to ease the fear or struggle when a cat is dying. It really helps and it is used for cats because I checked with my vet. It's like Valium. Have any of you used this for dying cats? I have a prescription for myself, so I always have it on hand. Ace promazine would have to be gotten from a vet wouldn't it?? We all hope our furry ones will died peacefully at home, preferably in their sleep, but as you said, it seldom happens that way. Same for people. We all hope to die peacefully at home. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
oh, yes, i've had that happen, too! tell me when it's time for me to help you she meows, this a cat who maybe meowed a dozen times in her entire life--so i get her into the carrier, tears streaming down my face, lock myself out, have to break into the house to get the car keys, take her to the vet's--where she promptly starts acting like there's nothing whatsoever wrong with her (she had a squamous-cell carcimona on her tiny little jaw--it had burst that morning, she couldn't eat, it was inoperable, this was NOT a questionable decision)--did i mention this was FirstCalico?? sometimes i think that they have that brief flash of kitten, to remind us both of what was--to temper the sadness with the memory of the joy. whatever, it was HORRIBLE! (36 hours after she passed, i looked up and saw her walking in from the kitchen, saying, hi, mom, i feel SO much better now, can i have my body back now? i had to explain that it didn't work that way. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
I have given cats ace promazine in situations like that, before I take them to the vet to be put to sleep. That way, they aren't stressed out from going there, and don't end up wasting away for days or weeks on end. I've often wished that a cat would pass away in his/ her sleep, so that I wouldn't have to take them in (of course that never happens), but it's just too painful to watch them gasping for breath, or trying to walk and falling down, etc. Just my personal opinion... -Original Message- From: Lorrie [mailto:felineres...@kvinet.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 4:03 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
I personally have never seen anemia as a painful death. But The ace sounds like a good option. Gloria On Aug 13, 2009, at 8:13 AM, POTT, BEVERLY wrote: I have given cats ace promazine in situations like that, before I take them to the vet to be put to sleep. That way, they aren't stressed out from going there, and don't end up wasting away for days or weeks on end. I've often wished that a cat would pass away in his/ her sleep, so that I wouldn't have to take them in (of course that never happens), but it's just too painful to watch them gasping for breath, or trying to walk and falling down, etc. Just my personal opinion... -Original Message- From: Lorrie [mailto:felineres...@kvinet.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 4:03 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Yes, watching them struggle or gasp for breath is just unbearable. I've used Klonopin to ease the fear or struggle when a cat is dying. It really helps and it is used for cats because I checked with my vet. It's like Valium. Have any of you used this for dying cats? I have a prescription for myself, so I always have it on hand. Ace promazine would have to be gotten from a vet wouldn't it?? We all hope our furry ones will died peacefully at home, preferably in their sleep, but as you said, it seldom happens that way. Same for people. We all hope to die peacefully at home. On 08-13, POTT, BEVERLY wrote: I have given cats ace promazine in situations like that, before I take them to the vet to be put to sleep. That way, they aren't stressed out from going there, and don't end up wasting away for days or weeks on end. I've often wished that a cat would pass away in his/ her sleep, so that I wouldn't have to take them in (of course that never happens), but it's just too painful to watch them gasping for breath, or trying to walk and falling down, etc. Just my personal opinion... ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
i don't know about klonopin, but i DO know that valium can have a paradoxical effect in cats, and make them very agitated, which is clearly NOT the intended effect. i've worried about that ever since i heard a number of folks, including vets, mention it. i would think, tho, that if you've got a good relationship with your vet, and a cat near time, they might be willing to prescribe something to help? in my experience, and i hope this doesn't sound too scary or morbid, when they reach the point of having trouble breathing, they don't really seem to be there any longer. it's as if they have already left, their spirits, as least, and all that's left is their no-longer-needed body. i find that i can really tell when they are not present, and have gone on--i always tell them about the wonderful cloak room at the bridge where they get to pick out a brand-new body, in whatever color or breed or pattern they'd like, that they don't need to worry about leaving the old body behind, that it served them well, but there's a new, healthy one waiting... i see the last shudders and gasps as just the last wisps of their souls slipping out of the dwelling that's no longer necessary for that part of their journey, not as something they are consciously suffering through. -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
We just PTS one of our geriatric cats on Monday. I had a little stash of torb-val syrup on hand and gave that to her Sunday and Monday morning. She had been in renal failure for more than a year but somewhere between Friday night and Saturday morning it looks like she had a stroke. It looked like she was paralyzed on one side of her body. On Saturday she was still drinking water but not eating, on Sunday she did not want water either. I was surprised she was still with us Monday morning, actually raising her head when I came to check on her. She was still present in her body but just barely. I'm sure that it was time to help her to the bridge. I have no idea how stressful a natural death might have been for her. We almost PTS last fall but then some antibiotics and fluids rallied her and she had 6 or 8 really good months, frail though she was. Last fall would have been much too soon but I worry that Sunday would have been better than Monday to PTS. It was a matter of vet availability and cost. Hate it when decisions have to be made on that basis. --- On Thu, 8/13/09, MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com wrote: From: MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 5:01 PM i don't know about klonopin, but i DO know that valium can have a paradoxical effect in cats, and make them very agitated, which is clearly NOT the intended effect. i've worried about that ever since i heard a number of folks, including vets, mention it. i would think, tho, that if you've got a good relationship with your vet, and a cat near time, they might be willing to prescribe something to help? in my experience, and i hope this doesn't sound too scary or morbid, when they reach the point of having trouble breathing, they don't really seem to be there any longer. it's as if they have already left, their spirits, as least, and all that's left is their no-longer-needed body. i find that i can really tell when they are not present, and have gone on--i always tell them about the wonderful cloak room at the bridge where they get to pick out a brand-new body, in whatever color or breed or pattern they'd like, that they don't need to worry about leaving the old body behind, that it served them well, but there's a new, healthy one waiting... i see the last shudders and gasps as just the last wisps of their souls slipping out of the dwelling that's no longer necessary for that part of their journey, not as something they are consciously suffering through. -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Susan, Do you work at a sanctuary? --- On Thu, 8/13/09, Susan Hoffman susan_hoff...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Susan Hoffman susan_hoff...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 6:10 PM We just PTS one of our geriatric cats on Monday. I had a little stash of torb-val syrup on hand and gave that to her Sunday and Monday morning. She had been in renal failure for more than a year but somewhere between Friday night and Saturday morning it looks like she had a stroke. It looked like she was paralyzed on one side of her body. On Saturday she was still drinking water but not eating, on Sunday she did not want water either. I was surprised she was still with us Monday morning, actually raising her head when I came to check on her. She was still present in her body but just barely. I'm sure that it was time to help her to the bridge. I have no idea how stressful a natural death might have been for her. We almost PTS last fall but then some antibiotics and fluids rallied her and she had 6 or 8 really good months, frail though she was. Last fall would have been much too soon but I worry that Sunday would have been better than Monday to PTS. It was a matter of vet availability and cost. Hate it when decisions have to be made on that basis. --- On Thu, 8/13/09, MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com wrote: From: MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 5:01 PM i don't know about klonopin, but i DO know that valium can have a paradoxical effect in cats, and make them very agitated, which is clearly NOT the intended effect. i've worried about that ever since i heard a number of folks, including vets, mention it. i would think, tho, that if you've got a good relationship with your vet, and a cat near time, they might be willing to prescribe something to help? in my experience, and i hope this doesn't sound too scary or morbid, when they reach the point of having trouble breathing, they don't really seem to be there any longer. it's as if they have already left, their spirits, as least, and all that's left is their no-longer-needed body. i find that i can really tell when they are not present, and have gone on--i always tell them about the wonderful cloak room at the bridge where they get to pick out a brand-new body, in whatever color or breed or pattern they'd like, that they don't need to worry about leaving the old body behind, that it served them well, but there's a new, healthy one waiting... i see the last shudders and gasps as just the last wisps of their souls slipping out of the dwelling that's no longer necessary for that part of their journey, not as something they are consciously suffering through. -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
It feels like it sometimes but no. I run a small rescue. We average around 150 adoptions a year and have the cats in various foster homes. Here's our petfinder site: http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/CA1136.html I usually take older kittens, teenagers and adults at my house. Some seniors and special needs types too. The foster homes are usually more into the tiny kittens. I do wind up sanctuarying some of the harder to place cats, or at the very least fostering them for a long time till the right home is found. I've had some for 12-18 months before they were adopted. I also have a weakness for Siamese and will take more risks with older feral or undersocialized Siamese. May take a year to tame them for adoption but, hey, they're gorgous and eventually I do manage to place them. Our senior girl who just passed away from a grey and white tuxedo who had been with us 9 years. She showed up 9 years ago, starving and hugely pregnant. We took her in and kept her. She was at least 15 on Monday when she went to the bridge, possibly older. I know we did right by her all the years that she was with us and I'm glad she was here so long. Gave her plenty of time to forget her former life that had left her in such bad straits by the time she found us. --- On Thu, 8/13/09, Reyna Castano rcpin...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Reyna Castano rcpin...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 6:17 PM Susan, Do you work at a sanctuary? --- On Thu, 8/13/09, Susan Hoffman susan_hoff...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Susan Hoffman susan_hoff...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 6:10 PM We just PTS one of our geriatric cats on Monday. I had a little stash of torb-val syrup on hand and gave that to her Sunday and Monday morning. She had been in renal failure for more than a year but somewhere between Friday night and Saturday morning it looks like she had a stroke. It looked like she was paralyzed on one side of her body. On Saturday she was still drinking water but not eating, on Sunday she did not want water either. I was surprised she was still with us Monday morning, actually raising her head when I came to check on her. She was still present in her body but just barely. I'm sure that it was time to help her to the bridge. I have no idea how stressful a natural death might have been for her. We almost PTS last fall but then some antibiotics and fluids rallied her and she had 6 or 8 really good months, frail though she was. Last fall would have been much too soon but I worry that Sunday would have been better than Monday to PTS. It was a matter of vet availability and cost. Hate it when decisions have to be made on that basis. --- On Thu, 8/13/09, MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com wrote: From: MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009, 5:01 PM i don't know about klonopin, but i DO know that valium can have a paradoxical effect in cats, and make them very agitated, which is clearly NOT the intended effect. i've worried about that ever since i heard a number of folks, including vets, mention it. i would think, tho, that if you've got a good relationship with your vet, and a cat near time, they might be willing to prescribe something to help? in my experience, and i hope this doesn't sound too scary or morbid, when they reach the point of having trouble breathing, they don't really seem to be there any longer. it's as if they have already left, their spirits, as least, and all that's left is their no-longer-needed body. i find that i can really tell when they are not present, and have gone on--i always tell them about the wonderful cloak room at the bridge where they get to pick out a brand-new body, in whatever color or breed or pattern they'd like, that they don't need to worry about leaving the old body behind, that it served them well, but there's a new, healthy one waiting... i see the last shudders and gasps as just the last wisps of their souls slipping out of the dwelling that's no longer necessary for that part of their journey, not as something they are consciously suffering through. -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
sue, i think that we learn those hard, hard lessons that way specifically so that we do NOT make the same choice again. you did the best you could with the information you had at the moment--buzz' last lesson to you may well have been to teach you to listen to your heart from now on. i thank the universe that these bits of light wrapped in fur are so forgiving of our human frailty, and understand so much better than we do, that doing our best IS the best we can do the folks on lists like this do NOT make choices that intentionally hurt our charges--and they know that. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
MaryChristine, Thank you for your kind words. I think it makes it easier to know that others do not judge you, even when you can't quite get past judging yourself. I know I have learned so much over the years and always hope to improve the way I take care of my kitties. There were cats I had years ago that would have lived longer and healthier lives if I had known then what I do now. But I guess that goes for any of us that are ever so much more then twenty. Again, thank you. Sue - Original Message - From: MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 10:26 AM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision sue, i think that we learn those hard, hard lessons that way specifically so that we do NOT make the same choice again. you did the best you could with the information you had at the moment--buzz' last lesson to you may well have been to teach you to listen to your heart from now on. i thank the universe that these bits of light wrapped in fur are so forgiving of our human frailty, and understand so much better than we do, that doing our best IS the best we can do the folks on lists like this do NOT make choices that intentionally hurt our charges--and they know that. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Lorrie, I am so sorry for your heart ache. Is there any time for a blood transfusion? When I had asked my family vet about anemia, (my cat was down to a HCT of 9 at one point), he said they become very lethargic and just get tired and weak and eventually pass. I wish you the very best!! I am so sorry! Date: Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:02:50 -0400 From: felineres...@kvinet.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ Get your vacation photos on your phone! http://windowsliveformobile.com/en-us/photos/default.aspx?OCID=0809TL-HM ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Hello Lorrie, I am so sorry. I have been in your situation one three occasions. The first time I did nothing. I let her stop eating, as force feeding in this situation seems only to bother them and prolong their suffering. She lived for approximately two weeks after she stopped eating. She would take only a little water. Everyday I watched her get weaker and slowly disengage herself from me and the world around her. The last two days were difficult, her breathing pattern was altered, she was confused and wandered and would meow for no apparent reason. This is likely secondary to altered electrolye status and poorly functioning liver. She died at night, when noone was around. Probably a cardiac arrhthymia. She was not necessarily in pain, but it was a prolonged period of atypical behavior that is difficult to read. Certainly, however, her breathing was labored at the end. The second time I tried a blood transfusion. This was stressful on her, but after about a week of intensive care she improved and did well for about three months. When the anemia returned, I found myself in this position for the third time. I decided to not put her through a transfusion again - it was stressful, involving lots of medication and at times forced feeding. I let her be until she admittently refused to eat or drink. I waited another few days as she wasn't in any pain but when her behavior changed and her breathing become labored I put her down. I had to take her to the emergency clinic to do it and I regret that. I highly recommend doing it where she is familiar. Given my experiences, I would put her down somewhere between when she stops eating and when she develops signs of distress (labored breathing, altered mental status, clumsy walking, any sign of distress you can identify). With that said though, I would really try to find a vet that will come to the shelter. In my opinion it is well worth searching for a vet who would do it. I would also ask about sedating them prior to the injection. I am so sorry for your position and do not envy you you're current decision. May God bless you and good luck. Jenny On 8/11/09, Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com wrote: Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
it sounds as if your little one is doing what so many FeLVs do, just fading away. often they seem to be alert and aware of their surroundings, and in no distress, nor in any great hurry to leave--they just slowly sort of disappear it's usually a quiet, gentle passage, and whenever possible (ie, when there IS no distress or signs of suffering), i try to let them stay at home, surrounded by family and friends, keeping them warm and comfortable, and journey on from there. i give fluids and food as long as they will accept them, and i try to be with them when they go if that's something they seem to take comfort in (ferals and strays often do NOT consider that a calming thing.) my answer would be to know my vets' after-hours arrangements in case something goes wrong (massive convulsions, or some other clear sign of distress), and otherwise just plan on surrounding her with love and light and warmth and family. far too many humans these days leave the world without that you can also speak with the cat, and listen with your heart: ask her to tell you if she needs your help in crossing. they usually don't -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine Special-Needs Coordinator, Purebred Cat Breed Rescue (www.purebredcats.org) Member, SCAT (Special-Cat Action Team) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Both the Royal Princess Kitty Katt and Dixie Louise Doodle Katt, JP left this world on their own. If I ever have the opportunity to let one leave this way I will. I will not let one suffer but I will (try) not to impose my own pian on their bodies. Put yourself in the little one's place and see what you would want. Both my girls hated the vets. My decision and theirs was right for them. Permit them a cool place as well as a warm place. Kitty and Ebony wanted to be cool. I don't know what the explaination is and it really doesn't matter. Blessings to you for carrying. You are cared for in return. On Aug 11, 2009, at 3:15 PM, Christy Buchin wrote: Lorrie, I am so sorry for your heart ache. Is there any time for a blood transfusion? When I had asked my family vet about anemia, (my cat was down to a HCT of 9 at one point), he said they become very lethargic and just get tired and weak and eventually pass. I wish you the very best!! I am so sorry! Date: Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:02:50 -0400 From: felineres...@kvinet.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/ felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ Get your vacation photos on your phone! http://windowsliveformobile.com/en-us/photos/default.aspx?OCID=0809TL-HM ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org Marylyn, Copper Thomas ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Lorrie, I'm so sorry she has reached this stage. Of the three positives I've lost this yr. one was from anemia. CJ was in distress that last day and I did take him to the vet to have him PTS. Each kitty is unique so don't know if my experience is relevant to your situation. I'm in the process of losing Mattie now. She has lesions on her spine and has lost the use of her back legs. The paralysis is spreading and she is now not able to have a bowel movement. I know I'll have to make the trip to the vet in the next day or two and dread it. She isn't in pain which actually makes it harder to make that final trip. Sending hugs your way. Sharyl Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Lorrie, I am so sorry to hear about your little kitty. I was in the same position about a year ago. My darling FeLV+ kitty Buzz was anemic and slowly going down hill. He had stopped eating and I was carrying him to his litter box and upstairs to sleep next to me every night. One morning when I carried him down to his litter box he just sat there and swayed. I decided that it was probably time and made the appointment to put him to sleep. When the time came to go to the vets he used the last bit of strength he had to fight going into the carrier. That horrible moment will live with me forever. I so wish that I had stopped right there and canceled the appointment. Poor Buzzy hated going to the vets as most cats do and I made his last moments miserable. Even though I held him close while they did it, it will never make up for his fear. If ever I am in that position again I will wait and not chose to euthanize unless I know for sure the cat is in pain. Sue - Original Message - From: Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 4:02 PM Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
I BELIEVE WHEN THE TIME TO GO IS HERE,one goes. I won't kill any cat. If she isn't in pain let her go when her time is here,and being with you couldn't be better. I've been through itCathy --- On Tue, 8/11/09, Cougar Clan maima...@duo-county.com wrote: From: Cougar Clan maima...@duo-county.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009, 5:46 PM Both the Royal Princess Kitty Katt and Dixie Louise Doodle Katt, JP left this world on their own. If I ever have the opportunity to let one leave this way I will. I will not let one suffer but I will (try) not to impose my own pian on their bodies. Put yourself in the little one's place and see what you would want. Both my girls hated the vets. My decision and theirs was right for them. Permit them a cool place as well as a warm place. Kitty and Ebony wanted to be cool. I don't know what the explaination is and it really doesn't matter. Blessings to you for carrying. You are cared for in return. On Aug 11, 2009, at 3:15 PM, Christy Buchin wrote: Lorrie, I am so sorry for your heart ache. Is there any time for a blood transfusion? When I had asked my family vet about anemia, (my cat was down to a HCT of 9 at one point), he said they become very lethargic and just get tired and weak and eventually pass. I wish you the very best!! I am so sorry! Date: Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:02:50 -0400 From: felineres...@kvinet.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ Get your vacation photos on your phone! http://windowsliveformobile.com/en-us/photos/default.aspx?OCID=0809TL-HM ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org Marylyn, Copper Thomas ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
