Show us your pets!

[Norse]

Three weeks ago I took our older cat, Isis, in for a teeth cleaning because she had started to drool a little and was getting bad breath. During the procedure, under her tongue, the doctor found a lump. Not good. Biopsy confirmed our fears: squamous cell carcinoma; an aggressive form of cancer that is apparently the most common type of mouth cancer in cats. Isis is 18 and would be 19 in a few weeks. She has been on meds for hyperthyroidism and high blood pressure for awhile so, we decided against any invasive treatment and have just been trying to keep her as comfortable for as long as possible. She is such a fighter - the vet calls her a "tough little girl." She still has spirit, runs around the house, jumps up on furniture or into our laps and purrs, looks out the window at the birds feeding... but it is getting increasingly difficult for her to eat - the tumor is starting to impede her ability to swallow food, even the mushiest we can give her. So, I am afraid even though she still has spunk, the time is very near, probably a matter of days, as the spunk won't last much longer without enough food intake and we're certainly not going to let her die of malnourishment.

It never occurred to me that cats could get mouth cancer like this (thought it was just humans who smoke or chew ) but looking into our cats' mouths is something we will try to do - if they don't bite us that is - going forward. I also learned that this form of cancer is most common in white-coated cats, especially those who sun themselves (what cat doesn't?) and they tend to get it on their ears, mouth or nose. Our other cat is white. Apparently, it is suggested that you put sun screen on a white cat's pink areas before letting them out or even laying in the sun by the door. Hopefully, she'll get used to it. I will try to post photos tonight or tomorrow night of our precious Isis and Athena cats.

Beth, I am very sorry to hear about Bonnie Cat.

[badger]

I'm sorry about Isis. I'm sure if she could talk she will be grateful for being there when she needs you most.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Warm sympathetic hugs to you and Isis. I'm glad at least that she has had a long life and loving caretaker.

[smilingcat]

white coated cats and dogs are prone to melanoma. white cats with blue eyes are prone to deafness if I recall correctly.

I am sorry to hear about Isis with her cancer. 17,18 years a good ol' age for any cat to reach. She has a wonderful life. Cherish her waning days. We all have our place and time. And remember of all the wonderful years you and Isis have had. Protect her in your heart and she will be with you in spirit.

-------------

Beth,

This past year has been anything but normal. Long distance move with your babies. New place, new everything. Letting your cat go is so hard for all the selfish reasons yet we overcome and do what is the right thing. It is the right thing but still its so emotionally hard. You've given her many good years, kept her meds for thyroid condition for so many years. Kindness words can't explain. Kindness you can't boast. Kindness that only comes from the heart and Bonnie Cat was very blessed to have such wonderful mom.

Now its just you and Calypso. He has a wonderful mom, and you have a wonderful boy to help you heal your heart. Play with him. He misses Bonnie Cat too. Together, you can heal his loss too.

peace be with both of you,

smilingcat

[Norse]

Thank you for all the kind and sympathetic words. Last night Isis ate more than she has in the past couple of days, then spent her evening in my lap purring. As I told DP, she is just refusing to quit. Every time I think, this is it, she has a little rebound. I know the rebounding will end soon, but I have indeed treasured all these final days with her, especially seeing her able to be content. Each day is like we have stolen one more.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Thank you for all the kind and sympathetic words. Last night Isis ate more than she has in the past couple of days, then spent her evening in my lap purring. As I told DP, she is just refusing to quit. Every time I think, this is it, she has a little rebound. I know the rebounding will end soon, but I have indeed treasured all these final days with her, especially seeing her able to be content. Each day is like we have stolen one more.

Yes I totatlly understand this. I went through the same thing with Pearl a few months ago. Those last days were precious. Then it became apparent she was in increasing pain, and it was time, even though she would still purr. My heart is with you.

[Norse]

Thanks Lisa. What a lucky cat Pearl was to be a member of your family. And now, Suki has been provided the same opportunity to know the love, beauty and caring that Pearl had. In your photos, Suki even looks like she knows she's got it made.