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When we first adopt a cat or kitten, it’s a joyous occasion (well, usually!) and we work hard to help her adjust to all that her new home brings with it.
Fast forward a number of years or even decades, and we may find ourselves caring for this very same pet, now aged and perhaps with a host of complex health problems.
“How did I not notice this?” you may ponder. “How do I know the best decisions to make for her?” This is where a trusted and compassionate veterinarian (and staff) can step in. We promise that the right vet is not going to heap a ladleful of guilt onto an already highly-charged situation. And if you’ve been going to the practice for a while, they will be very familiar with you, your cat and her medical history (another good reason to keep up those yearly wellness exams, especially as your cat gets older).
Just remember this: You’ve been a wonderful caretaker by providing a safe home, nutritious meals and lots of love. Please don’t forget all of the important stuff, while obsessing instead on possible feelings of guilt or regret. Veterinarians encourage you to stay in the moment and focus on what can be done now. We emphasize this point in our article on page 12 of this issue.
And in Short Takes , we share guidelines on how your cat or kitten stacks up age-wise as compared to human beings. As we watch our kittens turn into adult cats, and then into old cats, it can be hard to witness an entire lifetime go by. But what a privilege to be a loving caretaker for as long as we can. Happy September!
Elizabeth Vecsi
Executive Editor
