Chloe was a cantankerous cat, apt to bite you if she decided she didn’t want any more attention. While she seemed to want, sometimes even crave, attention, she never wanted much and knew when she was done being adored. Despite her unpredictable temperament, she was well liked (or at least tolerated) by everyone in the family. Several of the children are currently younger than Chloe was and haven’t known life without her. Unfortunately, now they will.
On 2022-04-13, I was informed that she had to be put down. She was dealing with facial swelling, paw swelling, refusing to eat, and looking like she was in a lot of pain. Even still, the decision to put her down was not made easily or lightly. She was well beloved by those who were present and many who couldn’t make it. I count myself to be lucky that I was able to make it to be there with her, despite how sad it was.
The last moments I spent with her were hard. Despite the pain she was in, she seemed very alert. She had become far bonier since the last time I had seen her just a few weeks ago, and she didn’t seem excited to be receiving attention – she just wanted to sleep. Although there is no way to explain to a cat that you are saying goodbye for the last time, I had my chance to, crying all the while. Thanks to the preparations of the vet, she died with a measure of dignity, looking for all the world like she fell asleep like she wanted to.
While I may not know if the decision was the right one – knowing whether her death more mercy or cruelty is impossible – I certainly hope for the former. She is no longer suffering from the pain she was in.
Good bye Chloe. I wish you could still be here… you’re sorely missed.