Kitten Girl update! This cat of mine is a tough old dame. The last time I gave her life-extending meds was a week ago yesterday, but she’s still around, eating like a gorilla, bright-eyed, purring when I pet her.
Naturally, I’m looking out signs of decline or discomfort. Though end stage kidney disease is ultimately fatal, according to my vet, it’s not painful. My girl gets some happy juice (pain reliever) in her food anyway, just for added insurance.
I promised her no more suffering, and she’s enjoying living out her days without pills, shots or any of what she considers total nonsense. I didn’t expect to have this many days (a week). I don’t know how many are left. But it’s OK. I have had 18.5 years with her, and these extra days at the end are an unexpected blessing.
Every day now is a day to celebrate, even as there are times for tears. I accept that there is little more that I can do, that it’s OK for me to release her when the hour comes. Maybe tomorrow, maybe next week, but I will know. And she will too.
I have been sharing about life with Kitten Girl here and on the blog, since I started out five years ago. If you’ve been on the journey with us a while, or you’ve just joined, I can only say thank you. And I am glad to know so many people understand what living with and loving a cat — even one in her final days — is like.
Looking after her has become nearly all consuming. The blog is on hiatus because of it. I keep up with the facebook page because it makes me smile, and I’m not the only one with a sick or dying pet. Life goes on, and I refuse to drop out entirely. I can still love and care for my beloved girl and do this page. Because both are deeply important to me.
Yours in the mysterious and marvelous love of cats (and dogs!),
Laurie
Laurie, I'm so happy to hear that KG is still with you. I was worried when I didn't see the blog being updated, but I'm so relieved knowing you have been blessed with additional days.