The tests the vet performed on Teddy confirmed both feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus, a double whammy. Both conditions suppress a cat’s immune system, making them more likely to contract other diseases. The condition of his coat, a persistent respiratory infection, his weight loss and other symptoms I’ve noticed this summer supports this. Both diseases can be spread to other cats through bites, grooming or feces; feral cats are common carriers and threats to household pets.
Which of course I knew.
But hearing it spelled out by a vet whose integrity and competence I trust made me reluctantly agree to do the responsible thing.
Teddy was euthanized this morning.
The vet estimates he was about 5 years old. I’ve been feeding him for 18 months. How he survived before that I don’t know but the only thing he was afraid of was humans. Turns out he was right.
Sometimes being responsible sucks.
I am so sorry Diane. He was very lucky to have you these last 18 months. Hugs.
Gosh, I’m sorry it turned out this way.
I’m so sorry.
I’m sorry. It is such a painful paradox. You did good both ways, yknow.
Oh, Sweetie. I’m so sorry for you. You did a good thing. It hurts, but it was a good thing.
I’m so sorry. Doing the right thing can really stink.
Oh, Sweetie… You saved him from a world of suffering. Try to hang onto that.
Hugs.
I hope there is a Teddyland where hearts can live untroubled and free. Don’t worry, Diane. Teddy sends his thanks.
Yes, it does. I’m so sorry, but Teddy would’ve suffered more if you hadn’t taken him to the vet! That’s what you need to remember.
I’m so very sorry, and yes, it does suck, for Teddy, and you. You gave him what he would accept and no doubt you were probably his favourite human for the care you gave him these past 18 months.
Hugs.
Having a heart hurts sometimes. Thank you for doing the right thing!
So, so sorry Diane. Sometimes doing the right thing sucks. But there’s not a doubt in my mind that his last 18 months with you were his best.
Oh, honey, I am so sorry.
You did the kindest thing you could for him and you showed him love during those 18 months. Perhaps the only love he ever got from a human.
xo
I’m so sorry. You did the responsible thing and yes, it sucks. But your cats are safer now. Poor Teddy.
I’m so sorry about Teddy. He knows you cared and you saved him from untold suffering. It still sucks. I had to do this same thing last summer.
Said goodbye to my sweet sweet girl Hampton on the 12th. She was 16 and had a long good indoor life. Kidneys failed.
While you know they aren’t suffering any longer, it still doesn’t make the pain of their loss go away any quicker.
Ouch.