Question:
Hi, my cat is a short haired 14 year old male cat. About 8 months ago I noticed that he was coughing or actually almost dry heaving and seemed to be out of sorts. I took him to the vet and the vet did an xray, which showed fluid in the lungs, he did a blood test which was normal. The vet stated that he believed it was heart disease or something like it and since my cat was so old that surgery was not an option. He started my kitty on lasik to reduce the fluid and enalapril to help the heart function. My cat has slowly gotten worse and lost so much weight. I am having a real hard time in deciding on what to do about my cat. I honestly think another trip to the vet would kill him. He already breathes so rapidly and can't walk 10 feet without having to stop to rest because he is so out of breath. Does anyone know anything about heart problems and cats? Is there anything I can do or is my cat just going to get worse right before my eyes? Please help?

Lori

Answer:
Have you talked to the vet about his worsening condition? If he is your regular vet, he shouldn't mind a short consult on the telephone. Maybe his meds need to be changed. I'm really sorry. Call the vet and get some clarity.

Answer:
Hi Lori,

I am so sorry to hear about your cat, but in my opinion you should bring him back to your vet and get an honest opinion. You might have to make the decision on whether or not to euthanize him. I lost my cat in January to cancer, and it was the hardest decision to have him euthanized, but he went with dignity and his little head held high. Animals are very fortunate that they do not have to go through all the pain and suffering that people do, but from my many years of experience working in vet practices I have seen many selfish people holding on for their own reasons and not letting go of their pets. We all are a little selfish, and always want that glimpse of hope, but when our little furry friend looks up at us and we see pain or sadness in their eyes, I truly believe it is time to say good-bye at that point.

I wish you the best, and my heart goes out to you and your little buddy.

Petlover007

Answer:
Lori, when you had your cat at the vet 8 months ago, did he give you any kind of prognosis? It sounds like it may be time for your poor kitty to cross over the bridge. It is the hardest decision we all have to make in our lives for them. Please phone your vet ASAP.

Answer:
By what you explain in your post it sounds like he may not have much time left When you get some clarity about his condition from the vet and if the decision is euthanization, you might consider calling around to see if there is a vet kind enough to come to your home. That way you and he can spend his last hours saying good bye rather than having to go through the ordeal of travelling when he is so weak. You know your cat best, i'm sure whatever you decide will be in his best interest because you love him. It is never easy when they get sick.

Answer: