Final States

[SmokeysMom109]

Two and a half years ago we saw a small lump on Smokey's shoulder blade. By February it was about 2 1/2 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch high. We took him to the vet hospital where they amputated his front leg and shoulder blade. We followed that with 5 sessions of chemo.

Smokey had about 2 good years but now, the Fiber-sarcoma is back with a vengeance. The tumor goes from behind his neck to about the middle of his spine and from one side to the other. I'd say it is over an inch high. Ironically, he prefers to sleep on hard surfaces. There are several open spots and I am treating them.

Smokey is now about 6 years old and I know we won't have him much longer. I know this is a losing battle. He is a very special kitty and I will miss him like crazy. I cannot imagine taking him to the vet for euthanasia but know that in a few days I will have no choice. This all is just so unnecessary.

I remember when he got the shot in his shoulder blade. I knew it was not a good thing but had no idea it could cause this much pain, suffering and expense. This is not right. They have got to change the serum so this never happens again. I tell everyone I meet that has a kitty to be aware of shots in the shoulder and to carefully consider the need for all of the shots vets give so often. Smokey is an indoor cat and an only child. I would have rather taken my chances than risked this happening to him.

[opus88]

have a safe drive today Smokeysmom....I can understand your quandary its a hard call to make, we never want to rush putting down an animal who is still managing a relatively good quality of life. I do hope your husband will know when the time has arrived tho...without your keen eye to assess Smokey each day. ...keep us posted, and happy babysitting.♥

[SmokeysMom109]

Thank you for the affirmation. He is perky this morning. He even traveled up on the bed for a cuddle.

[Piparskeggr]

I believe that That Which Is Holy has a special reward for folks like you Ma'am.

I hope Smokey has many more happy days in your care.

[SmokeysMom109]

I just don't get that he is ready, that it is time. He still wants to be with me, eats well when he eats, purrs when I love on him. I have to carry him into the litter box but he does his business and then gets out.

I will keep you posted. Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your story.

[Piparskeggr]

I know the quandary you face.

Anita and I had to make the final decision for our beloved Silver Kestrel kitty near a month ago (intestinal lymphoma).  We doubted our motives, as we had a trip to visit family planned.

However, Kessie showed us she was ready and though I still choke up thinking of it, we made a good decision so she did not suffer.  We owed her that.

Making this decision, it is the hardest part of loving these little critters.

[SmokeysMom109]

Thank you for your kind words.

[SmokeysMom109]

Thank you so much for your kind and informative words. I had not heard that the two together was even worse, ironically, until yesterday. Your note confirms this.

If I ever get adopted by another kitty I will think long and hard before subjecting them to this risk.

I am in a quandary. Smokey is doing okay. I am home all day and keep him with me. I am able to tell when he is hungry, thirsty or in need of a visit to his box. When he eats it is with vigor although he has to rest during the process. Each day he eats about 1.5 ounces of turkey and a small can of wet food. However, on Tuesday I leave to drive 14 hours to my son's home so that I can take care of my two grand children while their Mom is doing her active duty. I will be gone 12 days. Then, I will be home about 24 hours before leaving for a conference for 4 days. My dear husband is willing to take care of Smokey  but is not as in tune with him as am I.

I hate to put him down for my convenience, don't think the long car ride to a strange place would be fair to him and doubt that he will survive the next 17 days that I am traveling. There's the quandary.

Thanks for your help.
Smokey'sMom109

[opus88]

thank you so much for posting this it is a good warning that all pet owners need to be aware of...we have to weight the risks of vaccinations especially when our kitties are indoor only..

The two vaccines most likely to cause cancer at the injection site are Rabies and FeLV, because both diseases are caused by direct contact with an infected animal, the risk for indoor only cats greatly outweigh the reward. These two vaccines are the only ones that use a killed virus and a killed vaccine needs the addition of an adjuvant, its these adjuvants that cause the the tumors....
For anyone deciding to vaccinate their kitties AVOID the combination Vaccines(multi vac's) b/c they involve too many antigens going into the system at one time.


I am so very sorry that little Smokey is again undergoing another terrible tumor, its common that these sarcomas do return with such a vengeance....you did all you could and gave your precious baby an extra 2 years of love and happiness to spend with you. We all know how difficult goodbyes are especially when its we the parent who has to make that decision when that last day will come.
I know you are watching Smokie closely for signs that he has just had enough and won't allow him to suffer with this horrible condition, we tend to hang on sometimes longer than whats in the best interest for our loved little friend. believe me I've been there many times myself, and it sure doesn't get any easier.
sending my love to you and to Smokey too, may your last days together be filled with love and memories to last a life time..God Bless and gentle journey little Smokey.♥
Please return and post anytime if you just need someone to talk too