We had to put my childhood cat, Napoleon, to sleep on Friday afternoon. I must say, that was one of the hardest things that I ever had to see. I guess I have been pretty lucky and led a fairly tragedy free life to say admit that about myself. I got a sobbing call from my mom after my last class on Friday afternoon. I was grateful that she got a hold of me then because another hour later I would have been on the road and gone for the weekend (although I still, without a doubt, would've turned around and headed home after whenever getting the call).
The cat had a stroke which left him pretty much paralyzed on one side of his body and was also spitting up alot of fluid. About two years ago he was having some heart and breathing issues. A few nights of oxygen at the vet and expensive medications later, he was doing better, actually thriving with being peppy and all. My parents, God bless their generous spirit, had bought us a little more time with him. I knew eventually the time would come soon since he was sixteen (80 years in cat time), but I have not cried that long or hard in quiet some time. Being there while he was given the injection probably did not help me much either but I wanted to make sure he was not scared and did not feel alone. That cat was a huge part of my childhood through adulthood.
That cat was one tough SOB. In fact, took two injections to put his already weak heart to rest. I will always remember him beating the crap out of the dog and purring to give you comfort. He also had a pretty tough tail/pain tolerance since my brother and I accidentally almost took his tail off twice in house doors. My dad is without a doubt going to miss him tons. He was hesitant to get him since he was never a cat person but Napoleon was smart and knew to kiss up to my dad and make friends with him first. He was his napping and table scraps buddy. At the vet I saw my dad cry harder than when he buried his own father 3 months ago. I hope they do get another cat but I think they will hold off for a little while.
Thanks Napoleon, I couldn't have asked for a better cat!
3 comments:
awwe. sorry. It is so hard to put your cat down. David's family cat took two shots two. I bawled like a baby.
I feel for you! It's good that you stayed by his side during the process. That's the ultimate gesture of love and comfort! I regret not being there for my childhood dog when it was her time.
Aghh, so sorry to hear about your cat.
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