Dignity

[Naomi]

Great words DM

I hope very much that Moli will be with us for many years to come and if/when the time comes we will do the right thing for her.

[LMC]

Being so new on here, I haven't wanted to intrude on people's grief - there can sometimes be nothing worse than the well-meant clumsiness of strangers. I've been so touched by some of the stories and hope you have all found comfort in the love of your families, friends and other pets and in the knowledge that you have given your cat such a happy life - however long or short.

Having only been a multi-cat household for the last 12 years or so, I've only lost two cats so far - both died very suddenly in different circumstances.

So now is the first time that I am faced with the possibility of having to make that final gesture of love - although I hope Jenny will last to the warmer weather when her asthma is always so much better:

I want her to have another living summer,
to lie in the sun and enjoy the douceur de vivre –
because the sun, like golden rum in a rummer,
is what makes an idle cat un tout petit peu ivre –

I want her to lie stretched out, contented,
revelling in the heat, her fur all dry and warm,
an Old Age Pensioner, retired, resented
by no one, and happinesses in a beelike swarm

to settle on her – postponed for another season
that last fated hateful journey to the vet
from which there is no return (and age the reason),
which must soon come – as I cannot forget.
(Gavin Ewart)

I don't believe that animals can predict the future in the same way we can - so it's some comfort to me that Jenny has no fear, even if I do.

[dinahsmum]

That is another very nice poem. I think the fact there are so many just goes to show how much our pusses touch us and how their demise upsets so many people. So sad

I don't believe that animals can predict the future in the same way we can - so it's some comfort to me that Jenny has no fear, even if I do.

I think that is quite right LMC. All the cats have is pain and discomfort, not any thought of 'hoping to make it through next year' or I'll let my mum down if I go' , just pain and tiredness and having had enough of life. Again - it's our final responsibility and our final privilege.

[Mags]

That is a lovely poem LMC and you are right in saying that it is a comfort that our pets do not feel the same fear we do.
I hope Jenny manages to get through the winter weather and can enjoy the warm spring sunshine again..
BTW I think you are fully 'initiated' and you are very welcome to join in any of our discussions any time!

[Kazz]

LMC don't stand on the sidelines - just jump in with both feet like we do.

And I do hope you get to spend another spring/summer/autumn/winter with Jenny....and you are right cats have no sense of "whats going to happen" only that they are warm, loved, safe, and fed....at that moment.

Karen