My cat Tiger turned 20 this past November. He was born in my house and has lived his entire life here. Since I was 5 when he was born, I really don’t remember a time before him being around. Last Friday he very suddenly took ill, wheezing and sniffling and not eating. He’s also a rather vocal cat and he wasn’t saying much. Sunday night he wasn’t any better and I was hysterical crying at the thought of him leaving me. Mom and I took him to the vet Monday afternoon and the doc said he’d do some bloodwork and give Tiger fluids and antibiotics.
We brought him back again Tuesday and learned the bloodwork showed nothing remarkable, although Tiger is definitely dehydrated. Even though he wasn’t getting his appetite back he was walking a little better and meowing a bit again. Our vet is a great guy and tries to remain as positive as possible, so he gave him more fluids and an additional antibiotic. Mom took Tiger again today (I couldn’t go) and he got some more fluids and meds, but hasn’t gotten too much appetite back. We’ve been giving him a nutrient paste so he has something in his system.
When I got home from work tonight I could see that his face was all puffy and he just doesn’t look good. Tiger goes back to the vet on Friday to see if there’s any significant improvement. Mom said that it looks like by this weekend we’ll have to decide what to do about him. I’m crying just writing this because it breaks my heart to know he won’t be around anymore.
It’s amazing he’s lived this long, my parents have never had a cat that got to be this old. I know this day had to come at some point but it’s tearing me up. Tiger is my baby, my cranky 20 year old baby. Even though in cat years he’s basically 100 years old, I feel like I’ve grown up with a little brother since he’s always been there. I know he’s suffering, and I know what’s going to be the right thing to do, but it doesn’t get easier to think about.
Tiger, I will miss you so dearly. I watched you being born and I’ll be there when I have to let you go. You have had a meow unlike any other cat that will be legendary in this family. I can never replace you.