i hate life

[jestaudio]

its shit, we had to put down our aging cat Harry, hardest thing I,ve ever done but he was in pain and nothing to be done apart from prolong his misery, the other 2 are moping wondering where he is, very upset wife and feeling very low.

[Colossal]

It's a terribly hard to thing to do and I've suffered the same loss myself and it's awful. The day came for me to this but we never made it to the vet; he died in my arms which was better and worse. Hold fast to the good memories of your little buddy. Hang in there man

[David Root]

I have had to do this a few times myself, most recently just over a year ago, and it doesn't get any easier. My sympathies, I know what you are going through.

Our vet advised to have the surviving kitty view the body at the vet's office. We did that; he sniffed at her for a second or two, and seemed to immediately accept it. I thought this was better than him not knowing, and moping about. No moping, I think cats live only in the present.

[Phil_S]

Our dogs and cats, I imagine horses, too, aren't "like family members." They ARE family members. The loss is profound, the grief is real, and time is needed to make peace with it. Be sure to make time to grieve, look at pictures, and talk about Harry. Time will ease the feeling and hopefully you will have fond memories. Harry wasn't getting better. It is a blessing that you were able muster the courage to spare him from the pain.

Sincerest condolences on your loss. Hang in there.

Phil

[jestaudio]

I think the worse is I feel like a total tosser, I know it had to be done and I had to be the one to make the decision as my wife was unable to, not the first time I,ve lost pets but its always been natural causes, thanks for the good wishes though

[Leo_Gnardo]

I think the worse is I feel like a total tosser

No, not at all.

Couple years ago my neighbors' 12 y/o cat had to be put down. He was everyone's pal, very peaceful, never went after the birds or anything. Brave little fellow too, I watched him stand off a fox. Couple months later one kidney had atrophied, the other just about shut down. Broke me up somethin' awful, I was invited over to say goodbye. He only had an hour left.

Chin up matey, this too shall pass.

[Phil_S]

I think the worse is I feel like a total tosser...

Feeling remorse is to be expected. Try not to dwell on it.

Doing what had to be done was the ultimate act of compassion for Harry, who was never going be be his old self again.

I've been there. It feels real bad. It is important to set your inner dialog on a positive track. You did everything right.

[vibratoking]

I'm sorry that you are going through this. I've been there as well and it's never been easy. I find some consolation by thinking about it in terms of myself. I have a definite wish to put myself down when it is time. If I am not capable, I will want help. You helped. Smile and enjoy the memories of Harry.

[Teleguy61]

I have been there many times, and it never gets easier.
It's the right thing, but oh so hard.

[jestaudio]

Thanks again to all those who have posted supportive messages, this was taken a month or so before he started to get ill waiting for food off my plate

[sliberty]

Went through this twice as a kid with my cats. Didn't have a pet for many years, but now have a 3 year old cat that I adore. I feel for you bro. No disrespect to Harry, but consider getting another cat - the joy it brings will help.

[jestaudio]

Went through this twice as a kid with my cats. Didn't have a pet for many years, but now have a 3 year old cat that I adore. I feel for you bro. No disrespect to Harry, but consider getting another cat - the joy it brings will help.

We have another 2 females, Callie 9 and Ruby 3, would never be without cats

[johnnyreece]

I've been there. It feels real bad. It is important to set your inner dialog on a positive track. You did everything right.

This is important in many situations. Very good words of wisdom, Phil. Positive vibes being sent your way.

[davidjon_99]

While growing up I never was a cat person. Just never thought much of them. When I got married my wife talked me into getting a cat. Now I live with 5 and couldn't imagine being without them.

Each has their own personality. Even the two sister kittens we just got are very different from each other. One is outgoing and thinks, no knows, she's the queen of the house. The other is very reserved.

Over the past 12 years we've had to put down three cats and each one was heartbreaking. The last one was my wife's most favorite. It was tough for a while, but we have so many great memories of each of them.

My heart goes out to you and I hope your sadness is someday overshadowed by the fond memories you have of Harry.

[gui_tarzan]

Sorry for your loss, I had to put mine down a few weeks back because his body just couldn't take his age anymore. There is a point where their quality of life is more important than our love for them, and it's because of that love that we do the humane thing. Mine lived 17 years and used every one of his 9 lives during that time. He was a trooper, but it was time.