A Stray Cat's Final Journey.

Long and yet rather quick.

That delightful cat who two weeks ago had chosen us as her new parents, has moved on to happier and higher hunting ground. Yes, we had to put him down as he was in just too much pain and had difficulty to walk.

Even though he ( funny, I thought it was a she but the vet soon set me straight in that regard ) only chose us a few weeks ago he did manage to find a place in our hearts. One never talks about those rather taboo subjects involving death and the help of it but despite feeling sad, I am happy that he doesn't have to suffer anymore.

This morning we realized that the time had come and as Bob had to be at work, I organized this particular journey. All the way to Oberwart, the cat meowed soulfully despite being brilliantly calm in his carry case, I kept on speaking to him to tell him that soon he'd be reunited with his family and rid of his pain while in a rather surreal fashion the hectic every-day-ness of life continued all around us. Honestly, I made a point of going fast enough but it seems that there are always a few luxury car owners who need to display their wealth and stupidity by overtaking at the tightest of opportunities.

The vet and his whole team were amazing. We had only been there once to purchase some muti for Mausi but regardless, they helped me through this horrid and painful process with never a mention that I might have jumped the gun. Actually the opposite. The vet took one look at our cat and told me that it was the right decision. The cat was very old and in a lot of pain.

Of course I had ruminated on whether we should have tried to treat him and keep him but hearing it straight from the vet made me feel at ease. Even though the clinic was full of patients ( a cacophonous mingling of cats and dogs ) they were ever so kind to our cat. He did look rather scraggly and unkempt! The assistant cuddled him straightaway and thus both of us made his final moments one of feeling loved. Poignant how fast those were...

Having pets means facing up to that side of things and when the time comes, it makes a world of difference to have a Veterinary team that cares but also knows what to do...

Biggi