Conference misery::feline_v1

    Bob,
    
    I'm so sorry to hear about your cat.  It is so difficult when our
    friends are ill, and when it is sudden and possibly terminal, it
    just seems like more than we can handle or they deserve.  It sounds
    like you have done everything possible for your cat.  The rest is
    beyond your power.
                                                                       
    I wish I had the right words to make it all better......
    
    Ellen
    
    

    You must feel so powerless.  I'm so sorry.  I'll say some prayers
    for Tiger and hope it helps.  Maybe you can visit him.  It might
    help him to know you're still there.  
      I agree that it sounds like you did everything you could have.
    Try to think positively.  This is the toughest time for a pet 
    owner.  Our thoughts are with you and Tiger.
       If there's anything I can do to help let me know.
       Nancy DC
    

Thank you for the kind words and encouragement.  Most of my
friends are not cat-lovers, one co-worker this morning asked
me laughingly if I wanted to borrow his BB-gun.

I talked to the vet this morning and Tiger is still alive but 
the prognosis is not good.  He is going to have an electro-cardiagram 
and other tests today.  Surgery may be attempted if it looks like he has
any chance at all.  I basically have to rely on the vet's guidance
here, but if Tiger has a chance I'm going to try to give it to him.

I'm still in a state of semi-shock as this was totally out of
the blue and unexpected.  Having just lost my grandmother
to essentially the same ailments makes it even worse.  (What
the vet is saying about Tiger is almost word-for-word the same
as what my grandmother's doctors said about her.)

I'll let you know what happens but the outlook is pretty bleak.

    My fondest thoughts are with you and Tiger.  Also, I'd like to send
    my condolenses about your grandmother.  I was never so fortunate as 
    to have met any of my grandparents, but I was blessed with someone
    who became my "adopted" grandmother, even before I was born.  Her
    death devastated me...especially when only 10 people (including my
    family of three) showed up at the funeral.  
    
    I have never been in your shoes, but will share your shoes with you
    if you need to talk.  Please don't lose sight of all the loving 
    kitties that would give everything to come into a household with 
    such a caring person.  
    
    We're all praying for Tiger...
    
    Paula, Schnapps and Tequila
    

    
    So sorry to hear about your kitty.  Don't bother talking to your
    coworkers about your cat, unless you know that they are cat lovers.
    If you were female, you would probably get more sympathy from
    non-cat people, just because people would expect a woman to be
    sensitive about it.  But, since you are male, many will not expect
    you to have feelings about a pet.  
    
    You can be completely free with your feelings in this notes file
    because we ALL feel the same way about our pets.  Please keep
    us posted on Tigers progress.  I hope everything works out.
    
    Good luck.
    
    Karen

    I know when Black Thunder was diagnosed as possibly having cancer
    a few months back, I was devastated too.  I didn't realize that
    having a kitten for only a few months would make me feel that way.
    
    With the help and support of the people in this notesfile, I
    managed to get through the scary parts.  
    
    I will be praying for your kitty's quick recovery.  Vet's can do
    some pretty amazing things.  My Keisha (dog) wouldn't be alive
    today if I hadn't taken her to a very caring vet.
    
    sandi (Lightning, DejaVu & Thunder's mom)
    
    

    I am praying for your cat and you too.  I know how difficult this
    is for you both.
    

I talked to the vet this afternoon, surgery is ruled out as he
says the procedure is too risky and would just be tantamount
to tormenting the cat for no reason.  Tiger has had numerous
tests showing that his heart and vascular system are in real
bad shape, although leukemia is *not* one of the problems.
I do not understand how he could have gotten into this condition.

They will continue to treat him with anti-coagulants,
antibiotics, and pain killers for the time being and hope that 
is sufficient to dissolve the blood clots.  At this point the affected
legs still look OK but there is no guarantee they will come
alive even if blood flow is restored.  He refuses to eat, though
that probably is not surprising under the circumstances.  The
vet continues to remind me that 99+% of the time this condition
is terminal.

I'm still unbelievably shocked at all this, and am still trying to 
cope with the realization that a couple of days ago Tiger was OK 
(except for a seemingly minor infection) and today he is dying in 
the animal hospital and will most likely be gone soon.  (I am 
probably not supposed to divulge this but will admit to crying after
dropping Tiger off at the vet last night.  Maybe that makes me a "sissy"
but I form very strong emotional bonds to pets.)  I plan to stop and see him 
right after work, he always likes to be held and cuddled so much, maybe 
he'll perk up a bit or at least manage a little purr.

I do have another cat, so the house is not completely empty,
but filling just the one food bowl in the morning is a
bummer.

    I don't quite know what to say except that I am feeling for you.
    Seeing Tiger tonight should help him feel a bit better and will
    be good for you.  I hope that everything works out okay for you.
    
    Jo

    I really feel for you.  I know what a shock this is, as my cat Pussycat
    was seriously ill without my realizing anything was wrong until
    very shortly before he had to be euthanized.  Cats are amazingly
    good at hiding their difficulties.  I am so glad that you are able
    to talk to us about it.  Remember that we are here for you.
    

I just got back from seeing Tiger.  He still does not have any
use of his hind legs, but is alert and does not appear to
be in severe pain.  I spent some time with him and managed
to get a nice purr.  He is very frustrated at not being
able to use his legs.

The vet says Tiger's condition is stable but still not good,
and has not shown any real signs of improving yet.  The only
small signs seen so far are that he apparently has some
feeling left in the back legs and has been seen to twitch
the end of his tail. However, they have found that in addition to 
the other cardio-vascular disorders he has a neurological problem 
affecting the heartbeat.

Should know in the next day or so if he has any real chance
of making it. 

    PLEASE don't feel like you shouldn't cry and that you suppose your
    a cissy!!  What you are is human!  You love Tiger very much and
    you're hurting a great deal.  It's OK for you to cry and it's OK for
    us to cry with you (which most of us are doing).  Our prayers and
    hopes are with you and remember that, even if we can't feel your
    personal grief, we can share it will you.  I wish I had words to
    make you feel better...maybe prayers will help...
    
    With lots of hope,
    Mary

    It just occurred to me, do you know about the taurine deficiency
    thing that was discovered a short while ago?  If I remember correctly,
    some cat foods were short of taurine and a cat fed on them for long
    periods of time would develop heart trouble, I think.  This may
    have nothing to do with Tiger's problem, but I believe that giving
    the cats supplimentary taurine helped the situation if it was done
    in time.  If your vet doesn't know about this, s/he could probably
    get the information about the appropriate corrective dosage from
    some place like Angel (sp?) Memorial Veterinary Hospital in
    Massachusetts (Boston?), or by calling a pet food company like Hill's.
    If this does have somehting to do with Tiger's problem, your other
    cat may need taurine as well.  I am very fuzzy about this, but I
    believe other diets (tuna fish? dog food?) can cause the deficiency
    as well.
    

    Bob,  I too am so sorry to hear about Tiger.  Lets hope we can have
    a small miracle in this case and Tiger can get better.  
    
    As far as your crying, don't feel bad!  REAL MEN are those who can
    express their emotions.  STUPID MEN are those who make insensitive
    and cruel comments about BB-guns.  I'll tell you, it's times like
    these when you find out who your real friends are!! 
    
    Jeanne
    
    

    We're hoping and praying that Tiger is holding is own and will begin
    to improve shortly.  I'm sure he enjoyed your visit--you mean as
    much to him as he means to you.
    
    Best wishes to all of you.
    
    Jill 

    Bob, I have nothing inspiring to say that hasn't already been
    said.  Just want you to know that I am praying for your sweet
    kitty to get better, and for you to accept whatever the outcome.
    I am also AMAZED at the insensitivity of other people, and to
    your face no less!!!  Some people are incredible.
    
    Keep us informed of Tiger's progress.
    
    Karen
    
    

    Bob-
    
    Our thoughts are with you and Tiger also.
    
    I know how you feel, having just went through a touch and go situation
    with my horse.  I also could not believe the insensitivity of some
    people, most had the opinion of ...get rid of your 'costly' problem.
    Fourtnatly, things are looking better for us, I only hope they do
    the same for you.
    
    Keep us posted, 
    
    Michele & Nippa

    You are such a gentle-man.  I am hurting for you and you
    must know that your furface knows how very much you love
    him.  PLEASE don't apologize for your tears.  They help
    wash the pain from your soul.
    
    You *also* must know how much we furface Moms and Dads
    are praying for you and your baby.  Please call if you
    need to talk.  You've only to ask.
    
    Bj
    

    Bob--
    
    I join the others here to wish you and Tiger well.  I know how you
    must feel.  I and many of us in here have gone through the long
    wait, and we are all feeling for you.  Please keep us posted.
    
    It must be especially hard for you after going through the loss
    of your grandmother.  People who that pets are only animals aren't
    terribly sensitive, are they?  A loss of a loved one, human or animal,
    hurts, and crying is ok.  This notesfile can really help you with
    many things.  Sharing the pain makes it a lot more tolerable.
    
    I'm praying for you both;  that whatever happens, happens for the
    best.
    
    Our love and prayers to you,
    
    Jane and 'Billie'

Thank you all very much for the support expressed here and
via mail, it has helped a lot, I am really at a loss for words.
(I tried to respond to all who sent mail, apologies if
anyone was overlooked.)

I called the vet this afternoon and Tiger is still alert
and his condition is muched the same.  The vet did mention
that he thought the rear legs were warmer though they are
still quite paralyzed.  I will be visiting Tiger again
later this evening.

Thanks for the suggestion regarding possible dietary 
problems, I will definitely look into it.

Will post more as soon as I have more news...

    re:  Men and feelings -
      I think that one of the greatest disservices our society has
    done to men is to teach them that feelings are a sign of weakness.
    As far as I'm concerned its the feelings that give our lives meaning.
    Lets face it, in any situation, what matters is how you feel about
    things.  If you can't feel or are uncomfortable with those feelings
    then you are robbed of a very important dimension.
      Also try to remember too that people do some funny things when
    they are uncomfortable with their feelings or someone else's, or
    with the expression of those feelings.  As much as I abhore the
    BB-gun comment it may very well have been an attempt at levity
    to try and help the situation.  It may have been very clumsy and
    inappropriate because the speaker was nervous, uncomfortable and
    out of touch with his own feelings.  It doesn't make the comment
    any more appropriate, but it helps to see it in another perspective.
      Nancy DC
    

I don't know whether the BB-gun comment was meant as a jest or
not, but I have gotten tired of and pissed off at the number
of people (admittedly mostly men) who seem to think that when an 
animal becomes seriously ill, it's automatic euthanasia time.

Anyhow, I visited Tiger again last night and he is still alert,
bright-eyed, friendly, and affectionate.  He is showing minor
signs of improvement but his blood chemistry is still very
messed up.  He seems to be able to move one of his hind legs
a bit now, but the vet says that he may be using thigh rather
than leg muscles to do that.  The legs are still too cold but
have not shown any signs of gangrene or infection.  There is
still no guarantee that even if blood flow is restored that he
will ever regain use of the legs.

Tiger has become the star patient at the animal hospital.  He 
has three doctors working on him and everyone there is amazed
at what a friendly personality he has, especially given the
circumstances.  The entire staff loves Tiger and is rooting for 
him to make it.  I'm starting to permit myself a little cautious
optimism but am not raising any false hopes as he is still very,
very sick, and very much at risk.  

    Bob,
    
    It sounds like Tiger is in very good, caring hands.  Would you
    mind telling what Animal Hospital he is in?  (God forbid that
    we need it and we love our vet but it's always good to have the
    knowledge beforehand.)
    
    I have a lot of non-cat friends and a lot of friends who, although
    they like cats, don't feel as strongly or emotionally about them
    as we do in this file.  I have learned not to talk about my kitties
    to them since they don't understand.  
    
    Even my family (especially Mom and sister) who are cat lovers aren't
    interested in every little thing that my babies do (wait until they
    have their own though).  
    
    That's what makes everyone who participates in this file so special--
    they truly understand.
    
    Hold on to your hope for Tiger--there are a lot of people praying
    for him and you.
    
    Barbara

RE: -1

Tiger is in the Collingswood Animal Hospital on Rt. 130 in
Collingswood, NJ.   (This is in southern NJ, near Philadelphia.)
I'll be going there to see him again this evening.

    re: automatic euthanasia
    
      You can blame part of that on our "throw away" society.
    Our economy relies on planned obsolecence.  Its sad that
    so many people fail to understand the difference between
    their cat or dog and their toaster or phone.  Just because
    you pay for both of them doesn't make them the same.
    
    All we can do is set a good example and attempt to educate
    people.  Keep the faith, it makes a difference.
       Nancy DC
    

    Bob,
    
    Do you have an update on Tiger's condition?
    
    Our prayers are with you.
    
    Janet, Patch, Mischief and Rascal
    

I took Tiger home from the animal hospital this evening.  He
is in stable, but still very guarded, condition.  He is also
very happy to be home!

He has shown a little bit of improvement in that he does support
himself on one of his rear legs, but still does not use them
for walking.  Tiger has adapted remarkably well to this situation,
though, I am amazed at the speed with which he can pull himself
around with his front paws!

The biggest problem is that he cannot deal with stairs at all.
I live in a row house (aka "townhouse" to the yuppie types),
stairs are a way of life in a house like this.  The litter
boxes are in the basement.  Also Tiger has always been accustomed 
to running around the house, up and down the stairs whenever he
feels like it.

I could have set him up in the basement but it gets fairly
cold down there, and Tiger always likes to lie down by a hot 
air vent.  So I set him up in an extra bedroom upstairs, complete
with food bowl and a shallow litter pan I made (hoping he will
be able to get in and out of it).  I blocked off the stairs
with some boxes.  This keeps Tiger from getting to the stairs
while allowing Boson and myself to have access.  We'll see
how this arrangement works out.  I expect I'll need some
hefty deoderizers to control litter box odors (or worse,
if he is not able to use the liiter box at all).

At this point I'm just taking it one day at a time.  The vet
has me giving him aspirin every few days to help cut down on
blood clotting, and reccomended that I massage his rear
legs to help promote blood flow.  There is no guarantee he
will ever regain use of his legs.  He will always be facing
these kind of problems as long as he lives, since the heart
problems that are the root cause of all this are incurable.

Despite all these difficulties it is great to have Tiger
back home again!

		Bob A.

    re: litter box odor.  Try one of the litters that has little
    green odor controllers in them (?Mighty cat?)  And if that isn't
    enough add some baking soda.  We have two boxes upstairs and four
    cats and I can do a reasonable job of controlling the odor with
    that combination.  (We also have one covered box, but that wouldn't
    work in this case).
      I was surprized to hear you are giving him asprin, I had always
    thought it was toxic to cats.  I know it can be lethal in humans
    if ingested in sufficient quantities....very nasty...Salicilate
    coma, to my knowledge, is not reversable.  Perhaps its just easier
    to give a toxic dose to an animal as small as a cat.
      I'm glad that Tiger is home.  And it sounds like he's adapting
    well.  I guess as long as he's happy and doesn't appear to be
    suffering all you can do is take it one day at a time.  Keep up
    hope and we'll all keep praying and thinking positive thoughts.
      Again, if there's anything we can do, just say the word!
        Pat Tiger for me  (and Boson, of course)
         Nancy DC
    

Well, he missed the litter box (not unexpected), but this is
not a disaster -- I figured this might be a problem and surrounded
it with cardboard and newspaper.  Maybe I'll try making a box that
has either no lip or just a tiny one on one side so Tiger will
be able to get in and out of it.  I have been using Hartz Mountain
litter for some time now as it seems to work well at controlling
odors.   If he continues to use the newspaper rather than the
litter I'll have to find a really good air freshener for that
area (as well as change the paper frequently).

According to the vet, aspirin in small doses will have the effect 
of thinning out the cat's blood and reducing clotting.  The
dosage has to be carefully controlled.  (Current dosage for
Tiger is 1/2 children's aspirin every 3 days.)

I let Tiger sleep with me last night and spent some time
with him this morning before locking him in his room for
the day.  I hate to confine him like that (and I'm sure
he's not too thrilled about it either) but it seems the
best way to be assured he does not have some kind of nasty
accident while I'm away.

		Bob A.

It's great to hear that Tiger's doing OK! (under the circumstances it sounds
like he's doing great!)

As for the aspirin...
I've heard that Tylenol is the real killer and the very small doses of 
aspirin are OK.  In this case the ill effects of aspirin are probably
smaller than the blood clots they may be preventing.
I use work for a vet (on their computer system).  Every once in a while
somone would bring in a blue kitty that they had given tylenol to.  Apparently
it kills the red blood cells or something, but I know that the cat can't get
enough oxygen if given Tylenol.
I'm no expert, but that's my experience.

Give Tiger a kiss for Tsunami and me,
Becky

    Bob,
    
    What the world needs is many more people just like you.  My heart
    is full, as are my eyes, as I read of the care you are giving Tiger.
    That little guy sure knows how much he is loved - you are terrific!!!!
    
    Give Tiger a hug for me, and also give yourself a big hug, and one
     for the other guy, too.
    
    Ellen
    

         Why don't you try stretching out a garbage bag on the papers
    and putting some litter on that?  Tiger wouldn't need to climb over
    anything, it would be easier to clean up and should cut down on
    the odor.
         Hope Tiger is better soon.  Keep the faith.
    
    
    
    Bob

Thanks, everyone... with all the grief I have been getting from
people urging me to put Tiger "to sleep" it's nice to know
that there are some understanding folks out there.  We've
already hashed it out, but I am still apalled at how many
people think of pets as some kind of appliance or other 
displosable object.  

A lawyer friend was particularly nasty in berating and laughing 
at me for "wasting money."  (Then again this guy once had a dog 
euthanized just because he didn't like its personality, wanted 
"too much" attention as I recall.  He also tends to treat women 
like disposable items, but that is beyond the scope of this conference!)  
Enough about that, only reason I mention it is that this guy
really lit into me...

I may try the idea of just putting some litter on plastic
and see how that works.  I'll probably try making a box with
a very low ledge on one side first in an effort to minimize
tracking of cat litter on the floor.  

I can hardly wait to get home so I can let Tiger out of
confinement and treat him to his favorite pastime -- sitting
in my lap and purring!

		Bob A.

    Hi Bob,
    
    Keep on hanging in there !  Sounds like Tiger's doing much better-
    thanks mostly to your love and support.  Hope he improves !
    
    Joy

    I'm really glad Tiger is home with you. I'll relate my experience
    with my Dory and maybe it will help you and Tiger. Dory had a birth
    defect- her "knees" in both rear legs would go out of joint - very
    painful. Well the vet operated on her and during the operation
    she threw a blood clot in one leg. When she awoke she had no control
    of her left leg- she kept falling down, she'd drag herself around
    on her bottom side  - it was pathetic and I thought
    she should have been euthanized. The vet thought that MAYBE
    she would regain control and asked me to wait awhile. Anyway,
    what I did was massage her leg every chance I could - @ 15 minutes
    in the morning, when I got home from work, before bed, and any other
    time I could - like when I watched TV. She loved the attention. Well
    eventually she regained movement - but only after "months" of constantly
    working w/her. Eventually she could stand & drag her leg - it looked dead.
    Then she could move her leg but her foot would constantly invert-
    so that she would be walking on the top of her foot. This wore
    off the hair on the foot and she was getting open sores on top. But 
    every time she inverted it I turned it back the correct way. I
    probably corrected it 700 or more times. Here is the good news -  she
    is okay today!  She functions and she is happy. Physically she
    is not perfect but she doesn't know it.
    
    Yes she does look funny when she walks and runs (her back legs hop
    and her front ones run so she runs at an angle - like a car out
    of alignment - because otherwise her back legs would catch up with
    her front ones and she trips - which has occurred). 
    
    The point I am getting to is that maybe if you massage, massage,
    massage...... the leg or legs, they will strengthen. And it doesn't
    happen overnight. It takes several months.
    
    About the litter box--- Dory still has problems with hitting the
    box.My solution was to put the green plastic bags (Hefty I think)
    on the floor around the box- actually I have several boxes next
    to each other because she can get into a box but cannot get her
    bum down - due to her legs - so everything misses the box she is
    in but most gets into the next box. Also, put paper over the plastic
    bags because it absorbs the urine and you can change the paper 
    frequently without always having to put down new bags.
    
    Also, the covered box probably won't work because Tiger will need
    room to move around - as did Dory. What Dory ended up doing with
    the covered box was putting her head inside and leaving her bum
    outside so I got rid of the lid mightly fast. Also you might
    consider getting a light weight litter box and cutting an opening on
    the short side so Tiger can get into the box but the majority
    of the litter will be confined to the box - but don't be surprised
    to find litter kicked out. Eventually you can get rid of the light-
    weight box and substitute a regular heavier on. I keep the boxes in 
    an backdoor entryway which I never use, however, you might get one 
    of those large boxes and set it up with plastic on the bottom as 
    described above. But Tiger will need alot of room. Someone had 
    suggested using a child's plastic swimming pool but I found that 
    too difficult to handle.
    
    Dory needed 2-3 boxes at first but now - after 1-1/2 years she
    can do okay with 2, but sometimes the paper is still wet or has
    lumps on it.
    
    About litter box odor - I never have had a problem with it as long as I
    picked up the papers at least once a day and changed the litter
    totally twice a week. 
    
    Just remember- improvement may take MONTHS and Tiger may never
    be physically perfect - but as long as you can cope and he is
    happy and not hurting,  things will work out fine.
    
    Also, try not to dwell on people's rude remarks. They are insensitive
    fools, and it is not worth wasting your valuable time on them.
    Just keep on doing what you are doing. I know their remarks can
    hurt. There are so many of us in this notesfile who can 
    empathize with you, so you have lots of support. 
       
    I hope this note isn't too long but I also hope it can help. These
    things take TIME and PATIENCE and you have both.
    
    Pat   
    
                                                    
     
      
    
     
    

    Another option would be to get one of those plastic "pet dinettes" for
    the litter. It is a flat piece of plastic with about a 1" rim made to
    catch what drops out of the cat/dog food and water dishes.

    Deb

    Hi Bob--
    
    So glad to hear about Tiger and you!!  It sounds like he is certainly
    improving.
    
    Don't feel too bad about "confining" him--you are right;  he could
    have a bad accident right now if he were allowed free reign of the
    house.  As you know, cats sleep about 85% of their lives away, and
    since he is recovering, he probably needs even more sleep.  So he
    is probably doing *lots* of snoozing while you are gone.  And he
    must feel wonderful to be home with you!  So please don't feel bad.
    
    Other noters have mentioned massage--that's great.  It will help
    Tiger, I'm sure, although it may be a long process.  But the immediate
    effect is the closeness and love he will feel from you (not to mention
    the massage itself).  That's worth a lot, and you can be sure Tiger
    knows just how much he is loved and cared for!
    
    Good for you, for being the wonderful caring person you are.  Prayers
    for you and Tiger,
    
    Jane & the Billie

RE: massage

What is the best massage technique?  I have been gently
rubbing his legs while holding him on my lap.  I'm a little
concerned about being rough on his legs since they're in
such bad shape, I don't want to cause further damage.

		Bob

    Hi Bob,
    
    I'm glad to hear Tiger is better and out of the clinic.
    (I'm sure he is too)  I'm no expert by any means,
    but I would think that the  rubbing all over his legs and hips,
    coupled with movement of the legs--the joints--should be enough 
    sufficient.  The idea is to stimulate circulation to all the tiny
    blood vessels all over the legs, plus keep Tiger (his brain) from 
    forgetting how to move his joints.  This type of therapy is done
    with comatose/paralyzed patients.  It is definitely worth the
    effort, time and patience.  Especially, if there's any chance of
    marked improvement, and Tiger has already shown some improvement.
    So, GOOD LUCK, keep us informed, and we're all praying for you
    both.
    
    People can be very insensitive to other's problems.  It's too bad,
    but what you're experiencing is a sad state of affairs society is
    in these days.  Now you know not to share anything else with them!
    
    Keep it up.  You're a sweet guy (and Tiger sounds real sweet too!)
    
    karen
    

    What I did was somewhat of a physical theraphy type massage I guess.
    I would rub my fingertips in circles around the outside of the leg
    starting at the hip and going to the toes then back up again, 
    and then I would entend the leg and push back on it. Sort of push and pull
    - but very gently. When you push back on the leg at first you will
    not feel any resistance, it will feel limp. But over time you will
    begin to feel a little resistance. (With Dory, it felt like a flutter
    of nerves or muscles, or like an ever so slight quiver in the leg).When the
    leg is extended - you don't  have to pull it out to its full extent-
    you can also move it in tiny circles. All of this is done very
    slowly and gently - and it won't hurt at all. In fact Tiger will
    more than likely enjoy the attention and petting.
                                                                       

RE:  Leg massage

Thanks for the tips.  Will begin shortly, am taking Tiger downstairs
to watch some videos while he sits in my lap.  He doesn't care
much what's on the tube as long as he is being paid attention to!

    I don't know if this is exactly what Tiger has, but this note is
    on page 35 in the February issue of Cat's Magazine:
                              
    A University of Tennessee veterinarian is  testing several drugs
    on cats with a heart problem.  All of the cats on one of the drugs
    show a significant improvement, according to studies so far.  Janice
    Bright , DVM is working with cats with hypertropic cardiomyopathy,
    a disease in which the chambers of the heart become enlarged and
    can't pump blood properly.  The two drugs being tested are diltiazem
    and verapamil, both calcium channel blockers, which alter the way
    the heart muscle contracts and relaxes.  The drug showing the most
    promise at present is diltiazem.  Cats who were being treated with
    the other drug have now been switched over to the one thatis working
    best.  Cats with hypertropic cardiomyopathy become inactive and
    have trouble breathing because of poor blood circulation.
    

RE: -1

Thanks, I will discuss this with the vet.  My immediate concern
right now is that Tiger is lethargic and does not have much
of an appetite.  He is not showing much interest even in his
favorite foods.

		Bob A.

    maybe Tiger would have some interest in baby-food -  the meat varieties
    such as Gerber or Beech-Nut lamb, beef, veal - sometimes that
    helps. Hope so.

    How is Tiger today??

>    How is Tiger today??

Still somewhat lethargic and lacking in appetite.  I am having
my vet look into the medication being used at U. of Tenn. as
reported a few notes back.  Tiger's ailment is not exactly the
same as they are treating, however.

His rear legs feel very cold and although he can get partial
support from one of them, he cannot use them for walking.
He does appear to be enjoying the additional attention he
is getting these days.

I tried looking in a few places for taurine but have not
been able to find it so far.  Vet reccomends 250 mg twice
a day.  Also tomorrow is time for Tiger's next aspirin dose.

    Possibly a health food store near you might carry taurine.  The
    one I frequent just  told me over the phone that they do, so if
    you can't find it, send me mail at CIRCUS::KOLLING or call me at
    work at (415)853-2117 and I'll get some and send it to you.
    

RE: taurine

I called around and found a place locally that has some, I'll
stop off and pick it up on the way home from work.  Can
hardly wait to get home to see how Tiger is doing...

I'm not quite sure how to administer this stuff (taurine).  It
comes in capsules that are much too large to expect a cat
to swallow.  I might be able to empty the stuff onto his
food in the hopes he might eat it, but Tiger is eating
little enough as it is.

Tiger's toes are progressively turning darker, to black.
I don't think that is a good sign.

    Re taurine
    
    Maybe you could mix the powder from the capsules into a little bit
    of water, then administer it through an eyedropper type thing.

    does tiger like icecream or yougurt or tuna?  Maybe you could disguise
    it in a food.  I know he isn't eating, have you tried baby food
    yet?  Gerber has a cereal that you mix w/ water or milk and Nippa
    loves it. (she had it when she was a baby and when I was a one
    day foster mommy for some kitties).  
    
    Does he like tuna?  If so maybe you could use the juice (water type,not
    the oil type) and mix the stuff in that?
    
    Good luck, and we're thinking of you
    
    Michele & Nippa

         Have you taken Tiger back to the vet?  It sounds like there
    is a problem with the blood flow to his legs if his toes are turning
    dark.  At the very least I would call the vet asap.
    
    
    Bob

I tried feeding him Tuna (one of his favorite things) this morning,
he did not even touch it.  I'll be talking to the vet shortly.
His toes turning dark are not a surprise, most of his problems
have to do with blood clots and his rear legs are still paralyzed.
I'm just afraid that they may have to be amputated if there is
danger of infection and/or gangrene setting in.

My poor kitty...

    Bob,
    
    I'm a little confused.  Is Tiger's heart ailment the one
    where taurine deficiency is the culprit?  If so, I'm
    surprised that the vet would send you home to fend for
    yourself in finding the appropriate treatment.  If this
    is not the case, then I don't understand why you are
    administering taurine.  Can you tell us, specifically,
    what Tiger's condition is (e.g. dilatative cardiomyopathy)?
    
    Donna
    

Tiger is now back at the animal hospital, after talking over the 
phone they wanted him back right away so I took off work to take
him in.  They are afraid that he may not be eating/excreting 
due to kidney failure and will be doing tests for that.

>                              -< Why Taurine? >-

The vet prescribed giving it to him.  I had never even
heard of the stuff before this and don't know anything
about it.

>    what Tiger's condition is (e.g. dilatative cardiomyopathy)?

They believe that this is Tiger's condition.  One of the vets
working on Tiger explained to me that there are 3 kinds of
cardiomyopathy and that they believe Tiger has the dilatative
variety.   (BTW, they had released Tiger to go home as he was improving,
but wanted to see him back regularly to monitor his progress.  I have
been in close contact with the animal hospital since Tiger's return
home to keep them appraised of his situation.)

Anyhow, I have to check back about 6:00 this evening to see how he 
is doing.

		Bob

    Bob, I think what Donna means is that if the vet prescribed (or
    suggested) the taurine, then he should have directed you on where
    to purchase it, how much to give, how to administer, etc.  That's
    what's confusing.
    
    I am sorry to hear that Tiger is back in the hospital and do hope
    that things work out for the best and he can come home soon.
    
    
    /Roberta
    

    Bob,
    
    Hang in there.  We're rooting for you and Tiger.
    
    Jill

RE: .56

The vet said to get taurine at "a health food store" and 
suggested administering it in Tiger's food.  Unfortunately
Tiger was not eating well enough to put that suggestion
into practice.

I may have had trouble finding it because I initially
hit the shopping-mall type of places (i.e., GNC).  The
first local shop I called had it in stock.

I just now talked to one of the doctors working on Tiger.
It looks bad, his kidneys are failing possibly due to
blood clots lodging in the arteries feeding them.  I'm
going to log off now, I'm feeling pretty low and want
to make sure I get to visit with Tiger this evening.

    Poor Tiger.  Our thoughts are with you.
    

Tiger is still at the vet and still in amazingly good spirits, but his
kidneys are not working at all.  The vet informed me that what
will happen is that as toxins accumulate he will get very sick and
there will be no hope for him.  If Tiger is not the recipient of
some kind of miracle it looks like I may have to make the decision
that I've been dreading and fighting off and trying not to think
about.  

When I saw him yesterday he showed no overt signs of illness
or discomfort, and was as friendly, affectionate, and bright-eyed
as ever.  I'm afraid this won't last long if his kidneys don't start 
working again SOON.  

			Depressed,

			Bob A.

    Bob.
    
    I'm really sorry for what is happening to you and Tiger.  Its so
    hard on you both.  I appreciate whats involved in making the decision
    and you can be sure that we'll be thinking of you and hoping for
    that miracle.
    
    If it helps to talk I'm in the UK on 830-4308 but I work late so
    the time zones should overlap.  Feel free to call.
    
    Kate

    I don't know what to say except that Tiger will be in my prayers
    tonight. 
    Pat
        

    We're all hoping and praying for Tiger and you.  
      Nancy DC
    

       Bob,
      Whatever happens, you can rest assured that you have done everything
    possible for your friend. I know how hard it is...I had to go through a
    similar situation last summer with our first dog.."Henry", a Bassett
    Hound that we had to put down due to terminal lung cancer. Henry had a
    personality that can never be duplicated. He was loved by everyone who
    ever met him...he used to insist on sleeping with any guests in our
    house..those who would let him, that is....
    
      I am not surprised that you also have many insensitive friends and
    acquaintances with no feelings for animals. Instead of being angry or
    upset about their attitude, I have recently adopted an attitude of deep
    sympathy toward those people...for in my opinion they have a serious
    character flaw in their personalities. These people have obviously
    never felt the kinship and bond between an animal and a human...that
    unqualified love and friendship...the unquestioning love and
    loyalty.... People who have never or cannot feel that bond should be
    pitied...
    
      Men's emotions have been supressed in today's modern society for some
    ignorant reason. There seems to be a mindset that a MAN cannot have
    feelings and/or emotions. I truely believe that this is a major reason
    for the unbelievable violence in today's society. Men who cannot or
    will not allow themselves to cry when they hurt are not complete
    emotionally. Crying is a normal, natural human reaction to pain. I
    cried like a baby each time I've lost a pet...not always for the
    pet...I recognize the fact that my pain was in part a pain of loss..I
    MISS my departed friends!! But I also recognized the fact that I was
    obligated to do what was right for my friends when the time
    came....although it didn'd make things any less painful to realize the
    "rightness" of what I had to do...
    
      So Bob, I congratulate you on your feelings!! You should be proud
    that you have not become a cold, heartless, machine-like robot such as
    many of our friends and acquaintences have seemed to become lately. 
    JMcD

    The fact that Tiger acts healthy would tear me up.  I feel
    SO sorry for you and the poor kitty.  If nothing else, 
    I think you've made the discovery of the wonderful, supportive
    friends of FELINES. 
    
    Shedding a tear for you,
    
    Paula, Schnapps and Tequila

I just came back from the animal hospital.  Tiger is gone.

They called me this morning about 10:00, Tiger had taken
a very bad turn for the worse.  I immediately went there,
Tiger was very pale and weak and had been hemmoraging and
vomiting.  He did recognize me and managed a faint (last) 
purr as I petted him.

It was clear the time had come. Tiger was suffering badly and
there was no hope left.  Although it was very difficult I
stayed with Tiger to the very end.  It was horrible feeling
the life drain out of my poor kitty as I held and petted him,
but I could not let him face The End by himself.  

I can't write any more at the moment, I'm pretty shaken up
and it's been impossible to keep the tears back.

Thank you all for your kindness and support.

    Bob,
    
    I'm so sorry you lost Tiger.  The tears are flowing here, as well.  He
    was very fortunate to have you with him at the end and I'm sure he's in
    kitty heaven thanking you for giving him so much love.
    
    I know these words don't make it easier.  Our prayers and thoughts are
    with you in your grief.
    
    Mary

    
    Oh Bob, I'm so sorry!  I feel like I've been through the past couple
    of weeks with you, hearing daily reports of Tiger.  I can't keep
    the tears back now either.... 
    
    You were so brave through all this and you made Tigers last few weeks
    of life worth living.  I'm sure he knew how much you loved him,
    it certainly came through in your notes.
    
    I wish I could say something that would make you feel better, but
    nothing can erase the pain you must be feeling, only time can heal.
    
    Please keep us posted on how your doing.
    
    Karen

    I feel so badly for you, Bob, but there was nothing more you
    could do for poor little Tiger. I know Tiger understood that
    you loved him very dearly. I think animals don't have a sense
    of "time" - I mean they don't consider whether they have lived 
    a LONG or a SHORT live - but they do know if they have been treated 
    with LOVE and KINDNESS, and I'm positive Tiger knew he had a quality 
    life - full of everything that counted. 
    
    Losing a beloved pet hurts so much. It feels so lonely. I think
    the only solace is in the fact that Tiger led a wonderful life,
    that you treated him as a very special friend, and I believe we 
    shall see them again someday.  
    
    I'm sorry,
    Pat              
       
    

BOB,

As we say in Digital, you "did the right thing".  My thoughts are with
you and Tiger. 

Donna


	When you are
	sorrowful--
	look again
	into your heart,
	and
	you shall see
	that in truth
	you are weeping
	for that which
	has been your
	delight.



	May the
	delightful
	memories
	fill your
	sorrowful
	heart
	with joy.


(author unknown)

     we are sooo sorry to hear about tiger.....  you are also in our
    thoughts and prayers...
    Regards
    Kate, Pookie and Happy

Death ... how inadequate we feel in helping our fellow man deal with this
most inevitable consequence of life.  There is an alarming shortage of empathy 
and compassion in this world, as your acquaintances have surely shown you.  
Yes, they are to be pitied, and you, to feel joyful, that you are able to
feel the love that they are incapable of feeling.  

Would you be able to tell me something more of Tiger and his life?  Is he
a tiger cat?  What was he like in life?

Shalom,
Donna

    Yes, please do tell us about Tiger. I'd like to know more about
    him too because he was very special friend, and he is part of our 
    family. He was, you know, part of the noters family, which 
    is like a very large, extended family.  So many people care about
    him - and you. 
    
    How did you come to be adopted by him? 
    
    Pat
                                                          

    The tears are flowing uncontrolably.  Every day I logged in to get
    a status report of how Tiger was doing.  I know the loss your
    suffering and it's not an easy one.  When one losses a loved one,
    whether it be a family member or pet, it's very difficult to deal
    with the emotion that is felt.  Just remember, he's not suffering
    any more and he's finally at peace and some day the two of you will
    be reunited.  He lived a happy life having someone as wonderful
    as you to look after him.  My thoughts are with you.
    
    Lori
    

Bob,

I am so sorry to hear about Tiger. After reading your notes telling
about his valiantly struggling to survive and your fighting to save 
him, I feel like I've lost one of my own. You did everything you could
-- your very best -- and a lot more than many people would. Tiger knew 
this and I'm sure he knew he was very lucky to have such a caring person.

In the past six months I've lost two cats after battles with feline 
leukemia and old-age-related problems, and know how heart-rending 
it is to fight so hard to save them only to lose them in the end. 

The following verse was on a sympathy card I received from my vet after 
my cat Junie died. I found some comfort in its perspective and perhaps 
you might, too.

Take care,

Linda


				----------


		    We who choose to surround ourselves
		     with lives even more temporary than
		      our own live within a fragile circle,
		       easily and often breached.

		    Unable to accept its awful gaps,
		     we still would live no other way.

		    We cherish memory as the only certain
		     immortality, never fully understanding
		      the necessary plan....

			"The Once Again Prince"  Irving Townsend

    We three are so sorry about Tiger and for you.  I know we'll all
    be together with our kitties in heaven, otherwise it wouldn't be
    heaven, would it?
    
    Salaam,
    
    Karen, Sweetie, and Holly, and Pussycat.
    

I just wrote a long note regarding Tiger which was lost
to a burst of line noise that managed to throw me out
of NOTES.  I'll redo it as soon as I get the chance. 

I've been trying to keep busy at work today and not
think too much about it.  (Haven't had much success.)
I'm sure it will hit home tonight when I go to take the 
food bowl and litter box out of the room that he was to 
use during his recovery.

    Bob -
    
    I too, am among the many who are grieving with you.  I have been
    through this many times to one degree or another, and it never get's
    any easier.  But I am glad, in a way, that it doesn't, because it
    says something about my friends and about me.  They have had the
    best care I can give them, and so do not have to fend for themselves.
    They live full lives, and when the time comes, I can apply the wisdom
    God gave me as a human being to help protect them from unnecessary
    suffering. And when I suffer after they are gone, and then find another
    to help fill the hole in my life, it tells me that I am still sensitive
    enough to their needs to go through it all again.  Because while we are
    together, they provide me with no end of joy and companionship.
    Each is different, and each brings its own style of warmth and
    friendship into my life.  I remember them all fondly, and carry
    on.  Here's hoping you will do the same.
    
    Gary

    Bob, 
    
    Our thoughts are with you in this sad time.  You did everything you
    could to help your kitty and keep him from suffering and I'm sure
    in his way he knows that.  This is such a difficult time, please
    try to keep the happy memories in your thoughts now as I believe
    they'll help ease the pain.
    
    Jan, Bailey and Amelia

I managed to recover most of this from the journal file...

Tiger was a fairly large (10 pounds) orange Morris-type cat
of medium build with a roundish face and big eyes.  People 
would always comment on what a pretty cat he was.

I adopted Tiger about 2-1/2 years ago.  I never knew his
original owners and consequently know nothing of his early
life.  (They had to move and for some reason could not take
Tiger with them.  A mutual friend took him temporarily
and offered him to me.)  Tiger and I took to each other
almost immediately. 

At the time I was considering taking in another cat to
help keep the resident kitty (Boson) company while I
was away at work.  I've had Boson since she was very
tiny and she never liked being left alone.  (While
still a kitten she used to attempt blocking the door
when it was time for me to leave for work!)

Little did I realize how pissed off Boson would be
when I brought another cat into the house.  (Her
first reaction was to turn around and attack me!)
I kept Tiger in a seperate room for the first week
or so, within a couple of weeks they were tolerating
each other, though they never got real chummy.

Tiger was the exact opposite of the way most people think
of cats.  He was not aloof or independent at all.  He
was an extremely affectionate kitty and could not stand
it if he was not being paid attention to.  He was very
much a lap cat, it was almost impossible for me to sit
anywhere in the house without Tiger climbing in my lap!
If I was sitting on the couch reading a newspaper, for example,
he would ever so slowly climb up on the couch and stealthily
climb into my lap a fraction of an inch at a time until
he would displace the newspaper.  ("Stealth cat")

He also loved to be picked up and held, and purred just
about all the time.  He would also usually put a front paw
on your hand and give little squeezes while he was
sitting in your lap and/or being petted.

Tiger was an inside cat his entire life.  His previous
owners had him neutered and de-clawed.  I am not in
favor of declawing cats in general, but Tiger showed
distinct signs that he loved to claw up furniture.
He had no street smarts at all. I don't think he
would have lasted an hour on his own in the cold,
cruel world.

He was a very fussy cat and would hardly eat anything
except 9-Lives.  (This was fine with me, I have found
9-Lives to be the least nauseating canned cat food a
far as humans are concerned!)  His favorite treat
was ice cream.  He would meow for it whenever the
freezer was opened.  I gave him a little occasionally 
as a special treat.

Of course, as with all kitties he wasn't always a saint.
His most annoying habit was that of eating plastic bags.
If they were left where Tiger could reach them, you could
guarantee you'd find pieces chewed out of them.  He didn't
swallow them, just chewed pieces which would be left in
various places when he was done with them. Strange! I will
probably continue to place plastic bags out of kitty
reach for some time, just out of habit.

Tiger loved to hear himself talk, especially if he
had an audience.  He was always crying to be picked
up and petted.  (About the only time he would be quiet
is when being held or eating.)  Admittedly, this could
sometimes get irritating!

Most of all, Tiger was a warm, gentle soul. He is already 
very much missed.

    Tigger sounds like a wonderful cat.  He and my first cat Pussycat
    must have looked a lot alike.
    

         Tiger sounds a lot like my Loki.  Perhaps it is a trait of
    orange Morris-type cats ;-) , but Loki loves attention and purrs
    almost all the time, especially in the middle of the night when
    he can wake my husband up with it ;-) ;-) ;-) !
    
         Like everyone else here, I was pulling for you and Tiger and
    am sorry that he couldn't make it.  At least you and Boson have
    each other to comfort.
    
         If there is anything I can do, just let me know.
    
                                         - Andrea

    Bob,
    
    You are a very special man and Tiger was probably the luckiest cat
    in the world.  I understand that the suffering is great and the
    loss is devastating.  If there is anything you need, please feel
    free to call on me at anytime.
    
    Take care,
    
    Kathy
    

    Sometimes I'm really sorry we don't have doors on our offices.
    I just wanted to cry and cry when I read that Tiger was gone.
    I'm truely sorry that you lost Tiger, he sounds like a truely
    special cat.  
      You can take comfort in knowing that you did everything possible
    for him.  I think that's important at times like this.
      Thank you for sharing with us and giving us a chance to care too.
    Fellowship like this makes life worthwhile.  I'm glad to know that
    there are so many caring people out there.
      If there's anything we can do...............
       Love,
       Nancy DC
          and the furry foursome.

    Our most sorrowful condolences.  I've felt like I've known
    Tiger through all of this.  If you want to get together, I'm
    sure a few of us could manage to form a little support supper or
    something.  Let us know.
    
    Until then, you know our nodes.  
    
    With tears in our eyes...Paula, Schnapps and Tequila

    I too want to thank you for sharing Tiger with us. He sounds 
    like such a wonderful little guy. He was very lucky to have
    you, and you to have had him. 
    
    Pat
                                   
    

Thank you all once again for your understanding and support.
At this point it's a matter of having to adjust (life goes on).
I couldn't bring myself to clean out Tiger's room just yet
and have not even moved the stairway barriers I put up for
his final visit home.

While it would be nice to get together with understanding
people, I take it most of you are in New England which makes
it pretty difficult.  (I'm in southern New Jersey, near
Philadelphia.)

I can't really think of anything else to say at this point.
Boson has been racing around the house and meowing, probably
trying to find Tiger.  Maybe after a while I'll look into
adopting another kitty. The house seems real empty with
just me and Boson.

			Bob A.

    Bob,
    
    Sorry to hear about Tiger!  I, too, logged in every day
    just to see how Tiger was doing.  He has left you with
    very special memories.  Hang on to the memories.  But,
    since you have alot of love to share, another kitty would
    be very lucky indeed to share life with you.  I hope Boson 
    knows how lucky she is.
    
    My Jasper looks a lot like Tiger, is mouthy, and lovable, 
    has a beautiful face, etc.  These orange guys are special!
    
    Best of luck to you and Boson,
    
    Karen
    
    
    

    Bob,
    
    It is so hard to find the right words to say in a situation like
    this.  Cat owners like you are not easy to find, you cared so much
    for Tiger and did everything possible for him.  I can only hope
    that the families that I place my kittens with will care for their
    cats as deeply as you do.
    
    Tiger sounds like a wonderful cat.  I have a kitty that is alot
    like him.  His name is Monroe.  Cats like them ask so little yet
    give so much.  Just hang on to all of those wonderful memories of
    Tiger and that will help you get through this difficult time.
    
    Jo Ann

    Bob,
    
    I'm so sorry.  You're in our thoughts here in the UK too.
    
    Take care of yourself.
    
    Love
    
    Kate

    I'm so sorry about Tiger.  There are no words that can express the
    sorrow of losing a furry friend.  The only small comfort I can offer
    is that I and many others in this file have lost a lifetime companion
    we loved like you love Tiger.  Mine was a venerable old Siamese
    named Lucky.  We can, in some measure, understand your feelings,
    and our hearts go out to you at this time.  Please, if you need
    to talk, feel free to call or send mail.
    
    Mary-Michael, Niniane,Charm,Dream and Boogie

    Bob,
    
    I was so sorry to hear about Tiger.  I know how much he meant to
    you, and how it hurts.  I had a real problem when I had my buddy
    put to sleep last year and only one cat came to greet me at the
    door instead of two.  And he was a real talker, too.
    
    Thanks so much for sharing with us.  You're a special person, and
    I know that Tiger is saving a special place beside him in kitty
    heaven just for you.
    
    Please take special care of yourself today.
    
    Joy

    Bob,
    
    Many times in the past few weeks I was caught by people coming
    into my office to discuss business--caught at checking the notes
    file to see how Tiger was doing.  
    
    Many people are crying and hurting with you.  As has been said,
    a lot of us have gone through it and know how you feel.  It is
    soooo hard.  (I lost the cat I had had from ages 9 to 29 a few
    years ago and still miss him.)  You will always love Tiger--forever--
    which makes him immortal in your memory.
    
    Give Boson losts of love and do consider adopting a new baby--with
    every kitty I add to the family, I love them all more and more.
    
    Take care and God bless you for the person you are and the love
    that you share.
    
    Barbara

    Bob,
    
    I am so sorry.  If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
    
    Jill

    Bob,
      I also hope that soon you'll be able to bring another kitty
    into your house.  I'm sure that will help both you and Boson.
    I'm sure Boson misses Tiger too, and how he's alone while
    you're at work.
      I'd love a chance to get together. If anyone has any good ideas
    let me know.
      Love,
       Nancy DC
    

    I am hoping that Bob will have time to make the Haledon New Jersey
    Cat Show this weekend - guess he only lives about an hour or so
    from the show hall.  Holly & I will be going - I'm not sure 
    about Penn & Cinn.  

Maybe next time I am in New England I can meet some of you
to thank you in person.  (I occasionally am sent up on
training and generally visit for a week on vacation during
the summer.)

Hopefully I'll be able to make the cat show this weekend.
And yes, I am already thinking about bringing another kitty
into the household.  I'm surprised because they never really
got along that well, but Boson really seems to miss Tiger
a whole lot.  She runs around the house meowing for him
and has been wanting a lot more attention that is normal
for her.  (Not that I mind that!)

I'm bringing Boson in next Monday for routine checkup
and shots, don't want to come home to any more nasty
surprises...

    Let us know when you come up for training!  We could do
    a Feliner's din din - 
    
    When you are ready for another kitty, maybe try and
    get a very young kitten (8 weeks) - that usually
    works real well when you have an older baby.
    
    Hope to see you at the show!
    
    E.T.
    
    Sasha, KoKo, Nikolas, Alexander, Timothy, Yurii, Lara, Ivan, Mister
    Miyagi, SilVee, Katenka, Pashenka, Misha, Malinka, Viktoria, and
    Terror said to say HI Bob !!

    Yes PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let us know when you're up.  If its
    in the summer, maybe we can do a cookout.  This time the
    party in the south, really will be in the south - Braintree!
    

    Bob,
    
    I just got a chance to check in and was sooooooo sad to read about
    Tiger.  You are to be commended (that sounds awfully stilted - sorry)
    for all the love and care you gave to him.  He died knowing that
    you loved him, that you had done all you could for him.  He is in
    kitty heaven with all sorts of friends - I have a few there, too.
    
    Another kitty will help - just don't be too surprised to find yourself
    calling it Tiger once in a while.
    
    Our pets are wonderful friends.  Our friends in FELINE are wonderful
    too.  What would we do with either!!!            
    
    My thoughts are with you.  It's going to be hard to go back to teaching
    this afternoon with these tears.
    
    Take care - Ellen

    Bob,
    I just got a chance to catch up on some of the notes.  I too am
    so sorry to hear about Tiger. You certainly did all you could for
    him and I'm sure he new that.  The end must come for all of us and
    I think Tiger was very lucky to have you by his side!  Try to keep
    your spirit up and be happy. You will someday share your life with
    another little fur face that will bring you happiness and I'm sure
    Tiger would like that!
    
    
    Jeanne, Cali, Sam and Sweetie
    

    Hi Bob--
    
    I've been away for training and just now got caught up on you and
    Tigger.  I've been praying morning and night for you both, and will
    still.  I'm so sorry about what happened to him, but you did do
    the right thing.  You were so wonderful to stay right there with
    him;  I really don't know if I would have the courage myself.  I
    admire you so much.
    
    Previous noters are right--cats really do not have a sense of time,
    but they DO know when they have a good life.  I t certainly sounds
    like Tigger had NO doubts in his mind how good he had it, and how
    much you and Bosun loved him.  So, while you go through this (very
    necessary) grief, please remember that, and be comforted.
    
    When the time is right, DO get another kitty!  We all know that
    no one ever replaces a person or a pet, but we can always use more
    love in our hearts and a new friend certainly brings that.  Some
    time when you feel ready and go looking, a kitty will appeal to
    you in a special way;  or one will come your way who needs you.
    And there you are---adopted!  (They're pretty good at picking us
    out, you know)
    
    Please let us all know when you are in the area.  I still haven't
    gotten to any of the FELINERS parties and want to;  I'd love it
    if we could all meet you, too.
    
    Take care, and keep on writing in.  We are with you, and care about
    you, and we are all in this together.
    
    Jane

    Hi Bob,
    
    I've been catching up on a month's worth of notes and have just
    read through this whole note.  I am so sorry to hear about your
    loss.  Tiger *owned* a very special human and knew and appreciated
    it too, I'm sure.
    
    The only words of encouragement I can offer that have already been
    given, are that over time, the pain of loss will eventually be replaced
    with happy memories.  You will NEVER forget Tiger nor should you
    want to.  I still laugh, cry, etc. when I'm telling a tale about
    me first cat, Harry.  I had to have him put to sleep almost three
    years ago.  I still miss his antics and wish I'd had the opportunity
    to be with him in the end like you.  But I didn't have a car at the
    time and like you did not work with people who understood my plight.
    
    Cry your heart out, it will start the healing process.  Don't be
    surprised when the things you expect the least make you cry the
    most.  My heart goes out to you and Boson. She may need extra loving
    now since she doesn't understand *why* Tiger won't be coming back.
    
    If you need to talk, please feel free to.   I'm here.
    
    Roslyn (mother of Escho and Brandy-another orange/white furface)

Things are going reasonably well, though it's still hard to believe
that Tiger is really gone.  I hope to be going to the cat show
in New Jersey this weekend so I may meet a few of you there.

Staying with Tiger when they gave him the injection was emotionally
about the toughest thing I've ever done.  Now that it's over
I am glad that I did it.  While I couldn't save Tiger, at least
it was possible for me to comfort him during his last moments.

    
    
                              -< Tiger was a good friend >-

    And you are a good friend, too.
    

    Hi Bob,
    
    It was very nice meeting you at the show - I hope you had a good
    time!  Katenka says hi!  Thank you for taking the time to visit.
    
    E.T.

RE: .106

Nice meeting you too!  The show was a lot to take in, I had
never been to one before.  There were some amazing kitty cats
to be seen there.  It was also nice to find some things with
pictures of orange-stripey Tiger-like cats to take home. 
(As some of you who have corresponded with me me already 
know, now that it is too late I have been kicking myself for 
not having any photos of poor Tiger.) :-(

Boson had her checkup and shots tonight, thank goodness no 
problems.  She and I are both still very bummed out but are
carrying on as best we can.  We will probably be adopting
another furry friend in the near future.

    
    Bob,
      When you have had time for the pain to dull somewhat, there are some
    things to remember... Tiger had a great life that YOU gave him. God
    only knows what may have happened if it weren't for you and the care
    and affection you gave him. Now that he has moved to another dimension,
    you should remember that he will ALWAYS be with you. A poem that was
    entered a couple of years ago in CANINE comes to mind. Although the
    poem was written about dogs, the theme surely applies here. 
      This poem was entitled "Where do you bury a dog?" Without going into
    a lot of detail, the answer is simple: "You bury a close friend such as
    Tiger in your own heart!!" You will be able to recall things about
    Tiger 20 years from now, and the memories will be warm and nice, and a
    bit sad from the missing...(I know, cause I still occasionally remember
    the little dog that my Dad got for me when I was too young to even
    know....and I grew to teen-age with "Sheppy" by my side..)
    
      Whatever you do, DON'T....and I repeat DON'T try to "replace" Tiger!!
    He was one-of-a-kind...he had his own, unique personality and traits.
    To attempt to "replace" him would be an injustice to both Tiger and the
    newcomer...  Whoever the newcomer will be, you will find another unique
    personality that will also begin to carve a niche in your heart...
    and you'll both exchange a lot of love and affection with him/her such 
    as you did with Tiger..
    JM
      

    Bob,
    
    Having lost my dear cat Mitty last month, after 13 1/2 years, I
    know what you've gone through, and I feel for you.  I cried for
    a week after she died.  She went very quickly, and I was spared
    having to put her down.  I can only imagine how rough it was for
    you to have made that decision with Tiger.  Though the tears will
    dry, it will take a while for the sadness to go away.  I don't know
    how long that will be, but that sadness will keep our cat friends 
    alive in our hearts.
    
    The outpouring of sympathy and support from the people in this file
    has been truly awesome.  While reading them, I felt as though people 
    were speaking to me about my loss, and I found comfort in all the
    replies.  I hope you've found some comfort here too.

    Regards,
    Richard

    I think in a very real sense we speak to ourselves and each other
    when we discuss something this special.  I think the same chord
    chimes in everyone of us.  I still found comfort in some of the 
    messages here even tho over 9 years have passed since I lost my
    Kathryn.  
      I've found something very special in this notes file.  At the
    risk of sounding rather hokey - I've found hope here.  Because
    I believe that if the world contains people like those I've
    found here, then there's real hope that things will get better.
      Nancy DC
    
    

    RE: 110
    
    AMEN
    
    Roslyn