Maurice, time to say goodbye

Mr P has just phoned to say he's on his way home. In some ways I dread him coming, as I can tell that he is very upset too.

Deedaa I'm absolutely certain that Maurice does know. For 2 nights running he has allowed himself to be picked up (something that he usually hates) and be carted upstairs, where he has proceeded to snuggle up closely, instead of lying at the bottom of the bed.

He's out at the moment, but as it looks like rain, I expect he will come in. If he's caught in the rain he always wants to be rubbed dry with a towel (doesn't like being a soggy moggy!). Digby doesn't like being wet either, but will not tolerate being given a rub down. Instead he decides that he just can't manage another minute without a "pick up" cuddle. This usually results in a dry Digby and a damp me!

Oh phoenix ! I'm so sorry! Don't blame you at all for not wanting to do it on your own. I'm sure he'll be enjoying the spoiling without our ability to anticipate the future

Thank you all, even though I've lost 2 cats ( Clucky and Lily, and many thanks to those that posted about them, plus an extra special thanks to a certain GN member, you know who you are!) ) since being a GN member, losing my dear Maurice is especially hard.

Sorry phoenix such sad news {{{hugs}}}

Thank you all so much, it is appreciated.

Went out this morning at 9.30, his nibbs snoozing in a favoured place.

Came back at around 12.00, bearing treats, smoked salmon, Stilton and a small pot of crab meat to "share"

No sign of him until around 5.30 ish, when he toddled in. I had saved a bit of the crab (had the biggest portion of it for my lunch in a brown roll )

He lapped up the crab that I had saved, didn't seem to notice that I had added drugs to it! wasn't overly keen on the Stilton, but really appreciated the smoked salmon!

We will only have him until 10am on Saturday (appointment booked) but by God, this cat is going to have every damn thing that he might enjoy!

Sorry Phoenix that's sad news

Phoenix, having been away for a while, I was shocked and saddened to hear about Maurice. We have been through it several times over the years and my heart goes out to you all. Even though you know it's right, it's so hard to do. Will be thinking of you and send big hugs.

Sorry Phoenix, I meant sorry to hear your sad news of course.

So sorry this Phoenix.

You were my first thought when I woke this morning. Nuff said.

I'm so sorry, phoenix. It's that time we all dread but part of our responsibility to do the right thing for our lovely companions.

Phoenix , last week I had to make the decision to allow my darling 12 year old companion to die. I miss her so much but accept the grief is the price I pay for twelve years of unconditional love , much joy, friendship and loyalty.

I am so sorry you are now preparing for this sorrow and I send you understanding and a hug.

How sad for you but you're definitely doing the right thing.

Poor old Maurice and poor old you

So sorry Phoenix

Sad news Phoenix . I will be thinking of you on Saturday. You were right to wait until you had your DH home for support.

I'm so sorry phoenix

Phoenix (((((hugs)))))

Maurice was lucky to find you.

So sad for you phoenix, been there a few times with much loved 4-legged members of the family and it certainly doesn't get any easier. But you have done and are doing your best for him

I agree, I cannot add any more. If you love Maurice, as I know that you do, you will do the final farewell with Mr.P by your side.

Phoenix - sending you (((hugs))). Nothing more to add to what's already been said really. for you.

It's sad but the best thing for him. Sometimes we keep them going..... for us.As you say though, a lovely link to the past for you.Mr Roses took our old cat to the vet last year [the final journey] so awful, and he was upset when he returned. However, he did say it only takes seconds for the injection to kick in, so it's over quickly, for everyones sake.Still think about him though, when you have a pet for so many years it becomes part of the family.

A big hug from me. I still well up when I think about taking the big decision for my little Nellie and that was 22 years ago. But if we really care we know we have to minimise the suffering. Be brave.