She's sixteen-and-a-half; up until a month ago she was in amazing health, and the vet has even expressed amazement at her bloodwork, considering her age. But she began to steadily lose weight towards the end of January, and last week an ultrasound revealed some type of growth, probably cancer, around her pancreas. I've been hand-feeding her, mixing in a med that is supposed to reduce the growth, but right now she only seems to be winding down her life.

I think I'm O.K. with it now, to the extent that I didn't want to make any uninformed decisions, or have any regrets as far as missing any of her symptoms, but it is stagerring to think that of all of the tiny chapters that have open and closed in my life in the past fifteen years--six residences, five automobiles, three hurricanes and at least as many tropical storms, at least four employers and even the occasional attempt at a relationship with a human female--how Martha is a chapter that has encompassed them all.

She's mostly sticking to her spot under the bed, or in my closet right now. She seems comfortable, just tired and weak, and at this point, I just hope she will quietly stop breathing and die as all cats choose to live--entirely on her own terms.

I know exactly what you mean..your cat has been one constant through the ups and downs in your life,almost being a witness to it and helping you through it all.I'll say the same as I said to Geoff when his own beloved cat was seriously ill,I hope she comes through this,but if not she's lucky to have such a kind owner.

AMW:
I feel your pain man. This is exactly what happened to Ginger last year for us, who was 15. Same illness. I did the dignified thing and had her put to sleep which was gut wrenching, but I was there with her and she's now here with us as we buried her here.
Maybe my cats feel your cat-one of our cats Nibbles is hobbling around out of nowhere-looks like a sprain and I hope that's all. She's limping but otherwise seems fine and I pray that's it.
My sympathies to you-no matter how old your cat is, you're going to hurt and that's OK!

Is Martha the cat in your picture?

Very sorry to hear....hope all goes as peacefully as possible.

Actually, that's Lemmi, the kitten, serving as my avatar.

I have hundreds of photos of Martha, but for some reason, this one is one of my favorites:

Sorry to hear it. She's a beauty.

My best wishes to you both, Andrew. She is a beauty for sure.

Beloved pets are really family members. It's never easy to lose one. Your kindness and devotion to her is moving. You're blessed to have each other.

I'm also very sorry to hear about this. Best wishes.

Could not have said it better. My thoughts are with you and Martha.

Truth be, I'm more fond of most cats then I am of most people. Cats can be very special folks.

I'm very sad to hear this. We have three cats and to lose one of them would tear us apart.

My thoughts go with you, and focus too on my missed and beloved cat Julius. All the best to you both...

Don't know what we'd do without our dog. Hope you get through it OK.

Cats are my favorite animals (and pets). I once owned a Blue Russian, but it wouldn't leave our neighbor's birdcage alone. So we sold it for a pittance, not knowing it was pedigree.

Very nice attitude in that photo there. She is a fine cat.
I miss my cat, Frieda. She's been gone for at least 25 years, but she
was around Martha's age when she got very sick and couldn't care for
herself. I hope Martha goes peacefully.

God bless you both.

On behalf of Cassidy, Maggie, Murray, Daisy, Jeb, and Floyd please know our thoughts are with you.

It's amazing how many cat lovers we happen to have on this board. It's never fun to see them get sick. Our oldest, Samantha, has arthritis and skin problems that make her back itch, but so far that is the extent of her problems. We have to vacuum constantly because of all the fur she pulls out, but it is a small price to pay for the love she gives us. She has huge eyes and will stare at you with more intensity than most humans would dare.

AMW, we are thinking of you and Martha.

AMW, I am sorry to hear about your cat's condition, but it's good that you can stay with her and tend to her till the end. As a cat lover myself I feel your grief. I still miss that Blue Russian.

AMW, so sorry to hear about Martha. The upside for her is that she has such a loving and devoted owner to see her gently and lovingly through her final days. They're our "babies", but babies who never grow up and leave you or have their feelings towards you change, there's nothing harder than letting them go. I know the worst of it for you is yet to come, you (and Martha) are in my thoughts and prayers.

AMW,

Sorry to hear about Martha's troubles. As many have said before me, our pets ARE family members, and they give as much unconditional love as they receive. I have not had a pet in many years (more because of circumstances than choice) but our family lost our beloved beagle, Ginger, when I was still in college (many years ago). The house seemed empty without her.

Anyway, just keep being with her as much as possible - and keep her happy. Please accept my best wishes.

AMW, its loving to see your attention and dedication to her as she to you. If she is go let it be while you are caressing her and telling her how much you love her.

Rick A.