The-F-Word.org

21st October 2009

posted in Personal |

After his second surgery for a blocked urethra almost three weeks ago, Grayson seemed on the mend. I got him home a week and a half ago and his stitches were removed on Thursday. He became blocked again over the weekend and I rushed him to the emergency vet on Sunday and then to my vet Monday morning where the doctor performed surgery yet again to remove scar tissue from Grayson’s bladder and catheterize him. The vet seemed optimistic that the procedure Monday would work so long as we kept him catheterized for a month but Grayson took a turn for the worse last night. His kidneys were shutting down and his breathing was very labored. Brandon and I sat with him for an hour and a half past closing and I steeled myself for the inevitable and agonizing decision that would have to be made in the morning. My vet stopped back in the office at 12:30 a.m. (he’s an awesome man) and called me half an hour later to say that the time was now. I got to the office just in time to cup and stroke my beautiful baby’s head as he took his final, hitching breaths.

My heart is broken.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 at 3:47 am and is filed under Personal. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

1 On October 21st, 2009, Lenore said:

How horrible! I am so, so sorry this has happened. I know it’s only a very small comfort, but at least you got to be with him at the very end. That’s something, at least. My deepest sympathies to you and Brandon.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 4:55 am

2 On October 21st, 2009, Meowser said:

I am so sorry, Rachel.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 4:57 am

3 On October 21st, 2009, Frankincensy said:

I’m so sorry, Rachel. You have my deepest sympathies.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:01 am

4 On October 21st, 2009, Lindsay said:

Rachel, i am SO sorry.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:04 am

5 On October 21st, 2009, bri said:

Rachel & Brandon, I am really sorry for the loss of your beloved fur baby. *hugs*

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:36 am

6 On October 21st, 2009, PurpleGirl said:

Oh Rachel, I’m so so sorry.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:43 am

7 On October 21st, 2009, meerkat said:

Very sad news. He was a beautiful cat.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 6:26 am

8 On October 21st, 2009, Lisafashionista said:

Rachel I am so sorry, I have been through this and it is brutal. But it sounds like your kitty had a tremendous amount of love and care from you, and that rocks, so remember that and all the good, snuggly furry times.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 6:38 am

9 On October 21st, 2009, Nicole said:

Oh, Rachel. I’m so sorry for your loss.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 7:39 am

10 On October 21st, 2009, Kimberly Lee said:

I am sorry for your loss. Losing a pet – who is a beloved family member – is painful. I’m sending lots of positive thoughts your way.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:21 am

11 On October 21st, 2009, SteveD said:

Very Sad about your Pet. I lost Amber (My B&W Cat) when she passed one day (heart they think). 30 days after full checkup.

SteveD

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:32 am

12 On October 21st, 2009, Katia said:

Rachel, I’m so sorry. I so wish that he could have just been fine after the surgery. I’m glad for him, though, that you could be with him at the end, to say nothing of sharing your life with him.

(crying and thinking of my own departed kitties)

Katia

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:33 am

13 On October 21st, 2009, Amy said:

[hugs] Sending warm thoughts.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:40 am

14 On October 21st, 2009, *e* said:

Oh Rachel! I’m so sorry. I teared up reading your post. I’m actually sitting at my office desk wiping tears from my cheeks for your sweet kitty. I know it’s not much consolation, but he isn’t suffering, which is good, and during his time here, he was loved and he gave love. I’m sure he will be grately missed. Lots of hugs!

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 9:17 am

15 On October 21st, 2009, Karen said:

Oh Rachel, I am so, so sorry he didn’t make it.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 9:32 am

16 On October 21st, 2009, Aine said:

I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful cat. <3

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 9:33 am

17 On October 21st, 2009, jen said:

So very sorry ….

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 9:40 am

18 On October 21st, 2009, spoonfork38 said:

I’m so sorry for your loss. Grayson reminds me of my Finn, large and loveable and lost too soon. . .

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:00 am

19 On October 21st, 2009, Ria said:

Oh hell..

I’m so sorry for your loss. I think there must be few cats in this world who were so well-loved and cared for as Grayson. My thoughts are with you.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:18 am

20 On October 21st, 2009, Samantha C said:

I’m so sorry to hear, Rachel. He was beautiful, and better than that he was loved.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:21 am

21 On October 21st, 2009, Shannon Russell said:

I send you hugs and love across the universe. Your heart will mend.

Peace,
Shannon

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:22 am

22 On October 21st, 2009, Seegz said:

Nothing can describe the love and companionship between a pet and their human. It’s like losing a child sometimes. You spend your lives together and share a wonderful bond that always hurts when it breaks.

Just remember, Grayson will never truly be gone as long as you remember the times you both shared. He knows you didn’t want him to suffer through something more agonizing.

I’m so sorry. My aunt and uncle just lost a pet recently and the passing of our dog Murray is always fresh in my mind on occasions like this.

Wherever Grayson’s consciousness is now, I’ll bet he’s got plenty of toys to bat at and treats to keep him happy.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:33 am

23 On October 21st, 2009, Melissa said:

Rachel this is so sad- it’s one of the worse things to have to go through.
RIP Grayson, and condolences to you.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:56 am

24 On October 21st, 2009, Meryt Bast said:

I’m so sorry, Rachel.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 11:02 am

25 On October 21st, 2009, i-geek said:

I’m so very sorry, Rachel. What a beautiful cat he was. This is such a hard thing. We had to put down our beloved rabbit last year- it was sudden and very painful. My sincerest condolences to you and Brandon.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 11:26 am

26 On October 21st, 2009, Alice said:

I am SO sorry, Rachel. My heart goes out to you and Brandon. Thank you for sharing Grayson with us – he was truly a lovely cat, and I’m glad that you had each other, even if it was for far too short a time.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 11:33 am

27 On October 21st, 2009, Fluffycat said:

Sorry about your loss of your baby Grayson. You have my sympathies.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 11:57 am

28 On October 21st, 2009, ajnabi said:

I’m so sorry your baby had to go. I’m sorry you had to make the decision. Death’s an awful thing.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 12:56 pm

29 On October 21st, 2009, Alyssa (The 40 year-old) said:

I’m so sorry!!!!!

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 1:11 pm

30 On October 21st, 2009, Kelly said:

Oh I’m so sorry! As a fellow kitty mom, I know what you’re feeling. Hugs.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 1:17 pm

31 On October 21st, 2009, Karen said:

I’m so sorry for your loss.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 2:25 pm

32 On October 21st, 2009, Raven said:

I’m so sorry for your lost *hugs*

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 2:42 pm

33 On October 21st, 2009, Apryl said:

So sorry to hear about your loss. You and Grayson are on my mind in Wisconsin. Take good care of yourself.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 2:47 pm

34 On October 21st, 2009, Carrie said:

I’m so sorry for your loss. Gentle hugs to you.

35 On October 21st, 2009, Charlotte said:

I’m so sorry, Rachel.
I lost the last of my childhood kitties earlier this year, so I can sympathize. He was a beautiful cat.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 2:48 pm

36 On October 21st, 2009, OTM said:

Rachel, I’m so sorry for your loss of a good friend.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 2:53 pm

37 On October 21st, 2009, Living400lbs said:

Rachel & Brandon, I’m so sorry you had to lose a good friend this way. *hugs offered*

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 3:00 pm

38 On October 21st, 2009, Jennifer K said:

Oh Rachel, I’m so sorry. He was a gorgeous cat.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 3:11 pm

39 On October 21st, 2009, Mina said:

I’m very sorry for your loss.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 3:29 pm

40 On October 21st, 2009, julie said:

Deepest sympathies, Rachel. I’m tearing up just thinking about it, having lost cats myself.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 3:43 pm

41 On October 21st, 2009, Keva said:

I’m so sorry Rachel! My heart goes out to you and Grayson. I had a kitty go through the same thing years ago, his tag is still on my keychain. My furry boys send their love as well. Take care.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 4:34 pm

42 On October 21st, 2009, Elisa said:

Rachel, your story made my eyes well up. Sounds like the loss of my kitty four years ago (four years! I can barely believe it!). I’d had her almost my entire life at that point, and her little body started to shut down. She held on and on until she just couldn’t do it anymore, and it was one of the worst days I’d ever had when my dad brought her to the vet (my parents made me promise to stay at work because they were afraid I’d get into an accident on the way to or from, from crying). I remember hearing her purr through the phone as they were putting her down… It doesn’t get any easier with time, but know you did all you could for him and he was much loved. My heart goes out to you two today.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 4:35 pm

43 On October 21st, 2009, JeanC said:

{{{{{Rachel & Brandon}}}}}

Those fur balls leave such a big hole in your heart when they leave.

Grayson knew he was loved and was blessed to have had two loving people to live with and watch over him.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 4:56 pm

44 On October 21st, 2009, Samantha said:

I am so, so sorry. I have tears in my eyes.
I KNOW how painful it is to lose a cat.
But remember he knows you loved him, and he’s a very happy kitty where he is now.
He understands you did all you could & more.
Once again I am so sorry.

***Much love***

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:17 pm

45 On October 21st, 2009, Rachel2 said:

Rachel, OMG, I am SO sorry for your loss. I just got teary-eyed.

I can’t really express how much I feel for you and Brandon right now.

{{{{{{{{{{Rachel & Brandon}}}}}}}}}}}}}

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 5:35 pm

46 On October 21st, 2009, Elizabeth said:

Oh, Rachel, I’m so sorry. I’m glad that he was able to have his beloved human with him as he breathed his last, and that you had that moment to say goodbye.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 6:49 pm

47 On October 21st, 2009, merri said:

I’m really sorry. I opened the blog and saw the photo of your cat and felt like crying for you. You dont know me but a hug to you both.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 7:46 pm

48 On October 21st, 2009, Jackie said:

I’m so sorry to hear for your loss.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:11 pm

49 On October 21st, 2009, scattered marbles said:

My heart goes out to you Rachel and Brandon, it is so hard to go through but what a blessing you were to Grayson in his last days. How wonderful that he was able to feel completely loved as he went through being sick. I know that nothing I can say will make it any better but know that you gave Grayson a true gift of a life full of love and remember the memories fondly!

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

50 On October 21st, 2009, Tia said:

I’m so sorry for the loss of your baby… it’s so hard to lose them.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:16 pm

51 On October 21st, 2009, Vixen said:

I am so very sorry, Rachel (and Brandon and the rest of the furchildren). He was such a beautiful big cuddly armful, wasn’t he? Peace to you all.

posted on October 21st, 2009 at 10:39 pm

52 On October 22nd, 2009, Liza said:

I’m sending you love and hugs, even though I know nothing will take the pain away.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 12:03 am

53 On October 22nd, 2009, Kelly said:

I am so sorry for your loss.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 12:10 am

54 On October 22nd, 2009, Erica said:

I am more sorry for you than words can say. I cried not only for your Grayson, but my Riddle and Tigger, and they have been gone for 9 and 3 years respectively. It’s easier with time, but hearing of others’ losses makes me remember and cry all over again. My cats are my children too.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 6:10 am

55 On October 22nd, 2009, Bianca said:

Just chiming in with my sympathy. I hope you are doing ok. Losing a beloved pet is always so hard. Take care of yourself.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 11:50 am

56 On October 22nd, 2009, Penny said:

You have my deepest sympathy—one of my cats died in July—and I hope you find some comfort in this difficult time.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm

57 On October 22nd, 2009, Bronwyn said:

Sending my sympathies and good vibes your way- I’ve been here and I know you can use all the positive energy you can get.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 12:43 pm

58 On October 22nd, 2009, Emerald said:

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 2:39 pm

59 On October 22nd, 2009, rachel with a little "r" said:

Rachel, I am so sad for you. You and your husband are in my prayers. (

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 5:23 pm

60 On October 22nd, 2009, Sara A. said:

I’m so sorry for your loss

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 6:13 pm

61 On October 22nd, 2009, Jennifer said:

My baby had to be put to sleep yesterday too, my doggie had a heart attack because of an asthma attack. It’s never easy <3

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 7:38 pm

62 On October 22nd, 2009, mo pie said:

I am so sorry for your loss, Rachel. You’re in my thoughts.

posted on October 22nd, 2009 at 9:55 pm

63 On October 23rd, 2009, Mom of 3 cats/4 dogs said:

My prayers are with you and Grayson. He was absolutely beautiful.

This blockage thing has terrorized male cats I’ve owned and it’s a bear to monitor and control. I only fed them dry food after so many bouts and have had major success in avoiding it after that. It seems the wet food had a tendency to elevate the problem in my case.

Once I lost a cat I always found another love to replace the void. I hope you will too soon as you are ready.

posted on October 23rd, 2009 at 4:43 am

64 On October 23rd, 2009, Charlynn said:

Oh, Rachel. I am so sorry for your loss.

posted on October 23rd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

65 On October 23rd, 2009, trendkiller7x said:

I am so sorry to hear about Grayson! You have my deepest sympathies.

posted on October 23rd, 2009 at 8:30 pm

66 On October 24th, 2009, Piffle said:

My sympathies, it’s so hard to lose a furbaby. He was beautiful. Remember the happy times and let yourself cry.

posted on October 24th, 2009 at 2:01 am

67 On October 24th, 2009, Carmen said:

I’m so sad for you. I’m going to have to put my sweet, 15 year old Ginger down very soon & my heart hurts. Take time to grieve because you and Grayson both deserve it.

posted on October 24th, 2009 at 2:41 am

68 On October 24th, 2009, Victoria said:

Oh, I hate that. So sorry.

posted on October 24th, 2009 at 9:32 am

69 On October 24th, 2009, Larissa said:

I’m really sorry for your baby cat, Rachel. I know exactly how it feels, it hurts so much… :/ But time will heal that, ok? I hope you get better soon.

posted on October 24th, 2009 at 10:01 am

70 On October 26th, 2009, Catgal said:

I am so sorry to hear about Grayson. It is so hard when we lose our fur-babies. You are a stronger woman than I. I don’t know if I could be present for that. Prayers to you for your grief. Grayson had a wonderful home and a great life thanks to you.
Sympathy,
Cat

posted on October 26th, 2009 at 5:30 pm

71 On October 26th, 2009, kate217 said:

Rachel, you have my sincerest condolences. I’m sitting here crying for your loss and unable to think of anything appropriate to say.

posted on October 26th, 2009 at 8:45 pm

72 On October 27th, 2009, Lu said:

I’m sorry for your loss. Heartbreaking.

posted on October 27th, 2009 at 10:20 am

73 On October 27th, 2009, a rose is a rose said:

i am so very very sorry. i have been through the very same thing. while i can’t know exactly how YOU feel, i can come close. my thoughts are with you.

oh and you did the right thing. no question about it

posted on October 27th, 2009 at 1:19 pm

74 On October 28th, 2009, inquisitive one said:

i’m a lurker who felt the need to express my deepest sympathy. sincere condolences on the loss of your beautiful cat.

posted on October 28th, 2009 at 7:09 pm

75 On November 1st, 2009, the fat nutritionist said:

Oh, the poor sweetie. I’m so sorry, Rachel.

posted on November 1st, 2009 at 10:39 pm

76 On November 9th, 2009, Open Post: What’s on your mind? » The-F-Word.org said:

[...] on some freelance web design jobs again in an attempt to help pay down our $5,700 vet bill from Grayson’s surgeries and to top it off, both Brandon and I seem to be coming down with something. He insists that his [...]

posted on November 9th, 2009 at 12:50 pm