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Old December 17th, 2006, 06:48 PM   #19 (permalink)
provence
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Hi SunShine. I'm so sorry to read about your beloved Sheba. Making the decision to put her to sleep is never easy and I think it's brave of you to want to spare her any pain.

Three weeks ago I put one of my dogs to sleep. She was just seven years old and had suddenly gotten sick (there were never any signs to pick up on) and before the week was over there was nothing left for the veterinarians to do. She'd had a blood transfusion, tons of blood work, x-rays, ultrasounds, you name it. The thing is, it was her time. I was told she may survive but had a slim chance. She needed more blood transfusions and I was told she would be on medications for the rest of her life if miraculously, she did survive. I was so overwhelmed with grief and all I could think about was that her life was in my hands. I sat quietly and knew that really, her life was in the hands of a higher power, I just had to make the decision when it was time to say goodby. I decided to put her to sleep right then and there.

I know you love your cat. Please don't doubt your decision to have her put to sleep. She's had 15 wonderful years with you and you've given her a quality life. I think humans are so used to knowing that if they pay a doctor, or a vet, then people and animals will get better. But the way I see it, suffering isn't a way of life. Simply being alive is not living. I know Sheba knows you are doing the best for her. She's not going to be mad at you. I hated to see my baby go but I really hated the thought of her struggling with daily life. It's because you love her so much that you have so much pain. Be proud that you can feel that much love for her!

Each time I've put a pet to sleep it has felt like the end of the world. The pain of losing your best friend can be unbearable. However, knowing their pain is finally over will eventually bring you peace.

I think many people put lots of money into trying to save their pets simply because they are not ready to deal with the reality that their pet is gravely ill. While it may seem like this is about the money, perhaps it isn't. At some point, you and Sheba would cross this path and even if you had unlimited funds, in your heart you would know that maybe it's time to let her go.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that you know your baby better than anyone else in this world. She trusts you and loves you and you love her. There is no wrong decision here. Be strong. Follow your heart-it will bring both of you peace. It is not your fault Sheba developed diabetes. Cats get sick and are needed back it kitty heaven. You've been a great kitty mom. Know that one day you'll see her again. My prayers are with you.

Last edited by provence : December 17th, 2006 at 06:58 PM. Reason: I rambled too much.
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